Business operators in Likoma are optimistic that the resumption of MV Chambo, a Mozambican vessel, will help alleviate long-standing transport challenges on Lake Malawi.
Speaking in an interview on Wednesday, Emmanuel Saidi, a mobile banking operator at Mbamba in the district, expressed hope that the new vessel would bring relief to business operations.
“The problem is that the most reliable water transport is MV Ilala, which sails once a week from Likoma to Nkhatabay. As a result, it takes time for one to go to the mainland and return, it is time-consuming,” Saidi said.
Another business operator, Monica Samueli thanked the Malawi government for negotiating with the Mozambican government to make available the vessel, pointing out that this will boost economic activities between Likoma and the mainland.
The vessel, which has a capacity of 100 passengers and 10 tonnes of cargo, halted operations in 2019 due to the closure of borders during the COVID-19 pandemic.
By Ireen Mseteka, MANA
