The Ministry of Works and Transport has temporary closed the operation of Albert Nile 1 ferry along Panyimur–Wanseko route due to mechanical defects.

The route, which connects Pakwach and Buliisa districts, will be out of service effective March 12, 2025, to allow for necessary repairs.

In a statement released on Wednesday March 12, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Waiswa Bageya, explained that the Albert Nile 1 ferry had developed mechanical defects, requiring immediate attention to ensure safe operations.

“The Panyimur–Wanseko ferry route will be closed to enable our maintenance team to assess the level of damage and carry out repairs to ensure the safety and reliability of the ferry,” Bageya stated. He assured the public that the resumption date for ferry services would be communicated in due course.

Passengers have been advised to use alternative road routes through Murchison Falls National Park via Masindi to Kampala and Murchison Falls National Park via Buliisa–Hoima to Kampala. “We regret the inconvenience caused,” Bageya added.

The ministry emphasized that the maintenance works are crucial to ensure the ferry’s continued safety and reliability, and they are working diligently to restore services as soon as possible.

Allan Ssempebwa, a Communication officer at the Ministry said the ferry had experienced mechanical issues in key components, necessitating urgent maintenance.

“The ferry had experienced mechanical issues in key components, necessitating urgent maintenance,” Ssempebwa explained.

He confirmed that the ferry would not be able to operate its scheduled trips until repairs are completed.

This marks the second time within a year that the Albert Nile 1 ferry has been taken out of service due to mechanical issues, with a previous suspension occurring in October 2024. The recurring breakdowns have raised concerns about the ferry’s reliability.