Transport to Uganda’s island district of Kalangala has been thrown into disarray following the breakdown of MV Pearl, one of the two ferries connecting the mainland to the Ssese Islands.
MV Pearl operates on the busy Bukakata–Luku route, serving both passengers and cargo. Its suspension has left MV Ssese as the only functioning ferry, resulting in severe congestion and long delays for travelers and transporters moving between Masaka District and Kalangala.
At the ferry landing sites, dozens of vehicles remain stranded, with some drivers reporting they have waited for days without success. The situation is particularly challenging for truck drivers transporting bulky goods such as construction materials, as they require more space on the ferry.
“I’ve been stranded for two days trying to get my truck onto the ferry,” said Musa Matovu, a cargo driver. “Heavy-load vehicles aren’t being allowed on, the queue keeps growing, and there’s no clear schedule. Every delay is costing me money.”
Passengers have also expressed concern over disrupted travel plans, with many forced to postpone essential journeys due to the limited ferry capacity.
Local leaders say the recurring transport challenges point to a deeper infrastructure problem. Kalangala District Chairperson Rajab Ssemakula has called on the government to implement a long-term solution.
“This is no longer a temporary inconvenience—it’s a crisis,” Ssemakula said. “Our ferries are aging and cannot handle the demand. We need a permanent solution, such as a bridge linking Kalangala to Masaka, to ensure reliable transport and support the district’s economy.”
Authorities have yet to announce when MV Pearl will resume operations, leaving residents, traders, and travelers uncertain about when normal service will be restored. In the meantime, pressure continues to mount on the remaining ferry, intensifying concerns about accessibility and economic disruption in the island district.