(Buliisa) – The Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) has announced a temporary suspension of the Wanseko-Panyimur ferry, which connects Buliisa and Pakwach, to carry out essential maintenance. The ferry, a critical transportation link across Lake Albert, is halted due to mechanical issues that UNRA says need immediate attention.
No precise timeline has been given for the repair, and travelers are advised to take alternative routes through Murchison National Park to reach either Pakwach or Buliisa. UNRA spokesperson Alan Ssempebwa emphasized that regular maintenance is necessary to ensure passenger safety, especially for a vessel that serves a high volume of both travelers and cargo.
“Like any transport system, the ferry is subject to mechanical challenges that cannot be addressed while it remains in service,” Ssempebwa explained. “We have halted operations temporarily so our engineers can address these issues, as safety is our top priority.”
He added that although maintenance work has commenced, the exact completion date remains uncertain, given the complexity of the repairs needed. With only one ferry currently serving the Wanseko-Panyimur route, UNRA has asked the public for patience.
Local leaders have expressed concerns about the economic impact of the ferry’s suspension. Buliisa District Chairman Fred Lukumu highlighted how the halt in ferry operations disrupts both passenger travel and business activities between Buliisa and Pakwach, impacting key areas such as food and fish transport. Lukumu urged UNRA to expedite the repairs to restore this vital service.
Buliisa District Woman MP Norah Bigirwa Nyendwoha called on the government to consider deploying a second ferry to meet the growing demands of trade and passenger movement between Buliisa, Northern Uganda, and West Nile. “The current ferry is no longer enough, given the high demand driven by increased trade in the region,” Bigirwa noted. “A second ferry would provide much-needed support and reliability.”
In the meantime, many passengers are turning to private boats to cross Lake Albert. Fares for boat trips currently range between Shs15,000 and Shs20,000 per person, with luggage fees between Shs5,000 and Shs10,000, depending on size and weight.
The Wanseko-Panyimur ferry is widely used by residents, traders, and tourists, making it a crucial link for both local and regional travel. However, until repairs are complete, travelers will continue to rely on alternative routes and transport methods, which may increase travel time and costs.