news 21 July 2026 Nile Post
Koome-Katosi Ferry Launch Delayed After Leaders Reject Unsuitable Vessel
Hundreds of residents in Mukono District were left disappointed as the long-awaited Koome-Katosi ferry failed to launch after district leaders rejected a passenger-only boat presented by the Ministry of Works, deeming it unsuitable for the promised vehicle transport. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/358167/koome-katosi-ferry-launch-delayed-as-residents-express-disappointment
Residents of Koome Islands and the Katosi area in Mukono District experienced significant disappointment when the much-anticipated ferry service failed to launch as scheduled. Hundreds gathered at the Katosi landing site, awaiting the vessel’s arrival throughout the day, only to be met with its absence.
The delay followed a critical meeting where local leaders, including the Chief Administrative Officer, Members of Parliament, and the Mukono District Chairperson, rejected a boat presented by Ministry of Works and Transport officials. The leaders stated that the presented vessel was merely a passenger boat and did not meet the agreed-upon specifications, which included the capability to transport vehicles.
Nathan Wampi, a local councilor, emphasized that the government had promised a ferry capable of carrying passengers, luggage, and vehicles. The vessel shown, he explained, could not fulfill this promise, leading to its rejection.
Many residents had arrived with luggage, hoping to be among the first to utilize the new service, which aims to reduce the current boat travel costs between Katosi and Koome, often ranging from Shs15,000 to Shs21,000. This cost currently limits movement and economic engagement.
Frustration was palpable among residents who have waited years for the ferry. Some youth employed at the landing site also voiced concerns about their livelihoods being impacted by the new service and requested alternative opportunities.
Mukono Woman MP, Sheila Amaniyo, highlighted the ferry’s potential to transform Koome Islands by boosting trade, tourism, and access to healthcare. District Chairperson Francis Lukooya Mukoome urged patience, attributing the delay to poor communication and insufficient infrastructure preparation, noting that docking facilities and a waiting area were incomplete.
As of the end of the day, the Ministry of Works and Transport had not released a statement clarifying the ferry’s absence or announcing a rescheduled launch date.
Source: Nile Post