The temporary suspension of the Laropi Ferry has sparked renewed calls from political leaders and residents in the Ma'di sub-region for the expedited construction of a permanent bridge across the River Nile.
The Laropi Ferry, which connects the districts of Moyo and Adjumani, remains a critical transport lifeline for hundreds of daily commuters, traders, and service providers.
However, its recurrent breakdowns continue to disrupt connectivity and expose the vulnerability of the region’s infrastructure.
The Ministry of Works and Transport yesterday announced the temporary suspension of ferry services, citing safety concerns at the docking points.
“Laropi Ferry is down! The vessel connects Moyo and Adjumani districts. Now temporarily suspended due to urgent repairs at landing sites,” said Allan Ssempebwa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Works and Transport.
“We are undertaking remedial works on the ferry landing sites to ensure safe and secure docking. Works start tomorrow morning,” he added.
Ssempebwa advised travelers to use the Obongi–Sinyanya route during the suspension and expressed the Ministry’s regret over the inconvenience caused.
The ferry’s temporary closure has reignited the long-standing demand for the construction of a permanent bridge at Laropi—a demand many argue is no longer optional.
Dr. Charles Lagu, a veterinary specialist and NRM aspirant for Moyo West County, said the delays and economic losses caused by ferry breakdowns highlight the urgent need for a bridge.
“The bridge is long overdue. The people of West Nile cannot continue to be held back by unreliable transport infrastructure. We need permanent connectivity that can boost trade, agriculture, and access to essential services,” he said.
“We are sitting on untapped agricultural potential because of transport bottlenecks. A bridge would be a game changer.”
Second Deputy Prime Minister and Adjumani West MP Gen Moses Ali backed the calls, emphasizing the bridge’s strategic and economic value.
“The Laropi Bridge is not only a regional demand but also a strategic investment. It will link Uganda to Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan more efficiently and open up West Nile to the rest of the country,” he said.
“The project is part of the Laropi–Moyo–Afoji Road upgrade and is included in the National Development Plan III. With Parliament recently approving loans from the African Development Bank Group, we expect the implementation phase to begin soon.”
Jessica Ababiku, the Woman MP for Adjumani District, focused on the social impact of unreliable ferry services.
“This is a matter of equity and service delivery. Our people deserve access to timely healthcare, education, and government services without being at the mercy of ferry schedules or breakdowns,” she said.
“Expectant mothers have missed medical appointments, and students have been delayed or stranded. A bridge would bring dignity and relief to our communities.”
Residents on both sides of the Nile are equally frustrated. “We waste hours waiting for the ferry, sometimes from morning to evening. If the bridge comes, it will change our lives,” said Rose Alumaiya, 56, of Moyo Town Council.
“Fuel, time, and spoiled goods — we lose a lot,” added Jamal Asega, a fish trader in Adjumani. “The bridge is the only answer.”
As the Ministry works to restore ferry service, the incident has galvanized both leaders and the public to push harder for lasting infrastructure.
The proposed Laropi Bridge is part of the government’s broader infrastructure strategy and has been prioritized under the Laropi–Moyo–Afoji Road upgrade project, with funding support from the African Development Bank Group.