By. Our Correspondent, KIGOMA
The historic MV Liemba passenger vessel, which has been out of service for eight years, is expected to resume operations on September 1, 2026, following a major rehabilitation.
The Project Manager overseeing the rehabilitation of the vessel, Engineer Elias John Kivara, told the Minister for Transport, Professor Makame Mbarawa, that the rehabilitation works had reached 97 per cent completion.
Engineer Kivara provided the update when Prof. Mbarawa visited the vessel and witnessed its launching into the water to commence sea trials.
He said the trials, which began on August 15, would continue until August 21. After the trials, the vessel would undergo final preparations before resuming operations on September 1, sailing from Kigoma Port to Mpulungu Port in Zambia.
Speaking after witnessing the commencement of the trials, Prof. Mbarawa said the government had responded to public calls for the return of the vessel after it had remained out of service for a prolonged period.
Prof. Mbarawa said the government had allocated TSh 34 billion for the rehabilitation of MV Liemba to ensure that it resumes operations. He added that the vessel would contribute to the government’s plan to position Kigoma as a strategic centre for economic and trade activities.
The minister said MV Liemba was vital to the livelihoods of people in Kigoma, Katavi and Rukwa regions, describing the vessel as an important catalyst for trade and economic activities across the three regions.
Prof. Mbarawa directed the Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASHICO) to ensure that the vessel receives all necessary maintenance whenever required, in accordance with established operational procedures, so that it can serve the public for another 50 years.
For his part, TASHICO Managing Director Eric Hamisi said the corporation would adhere to all operational procedures to ensure that the vessel remains in service for many years and provides reliable services to the public without interruptions.
Mr. elaborated that the challenges that affected the vessel in the past would now become history and the economy of the region will grow faster than ever.
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