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Kalangala — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has pledged to address the long-standing challenge of limited ferry services on the Ssese Islands, saying the government will move to restore night ferry operations to ease movement and stimulate trade in Kalangala District.
The President committed while addressing a campaign rally at Kibanga Primary School playground in Kalangala, where he responded to concerns raised by local leaders over transport bottlenecks on the islands.
“On the issue of ferries, I am told they are few, operate for only a few hours, and do not run at night. I do not know why this is the case, but we are going to look into it. I will ask why,” President Museveni said.
Recalling past experiences, the President noted that night travel on Lake Victoria was once common. “We used to travel at night to Mwanza and Bukoba. I remember moving from Bwama at night. Night travel is not something new,” he added.
The concern was earlier raised by the NRM Vice Chairperson for the Central Region, Hon. Haruna Kasolo Kyeyune, who told the President that restricted ferry schedules were slowing down business and trade on the islands. Ferries remain a critical lifeline for the Ssese Islands, connecting residents to the mainland and facilitating the movement of goods, services and people. Limited operating hours, especially at night, have long constrained fishermen, traders and commuters.
Addressing security, President Museveni said Kalangala had enjoyed peace for decades under NRM leadership, although cases of theft on the islands still require attention. “This area has not seen war in 40 years. That is the work of the NRM. However, issues of theft have been reported, and I am going to look into them seriously,” he said.
On infrastructure, the President acknowledged delays in upgrading the Bugoma–Kalangala road, urging residents to elect leaders who actively demand services. He also commended locals for embracing palm oil growing, describing it as a transformative project for the island economy, while encouraging diversification into livestock and poultry farming.
President Museveni cautioned fishermen against overharvesting, warning against catching immature fish, and said the government would also review the issue of cage fishing.
He further highlighted progress in education, water access and health services, while urging authorities to prioritise equitable distribution of schools and services across sub-counties and parishes.
The President also used the rally to emphasise economic empowerment, encouraging residents—especially the youth—to engage in productive activities and improve household incomes rather than remain trapped in poverty.
At the event, President Museveni handed over NRM flags to party candidates in Kalangala, formally endorsing them for the upcoming elections. The rally was attended by senior NRM leaders, Members of Parliament, religious and cultural leaders, and thousands of supporters.
