Mwanza - Social and economic activities in the East African region are set for a big boost, thanks to construction of the new huge passenger ship on Lake Victoria.
Three contracts for the multi-billion project was signed here on Monday, with President John Magufuli and South Korean Ambassador to Tanzania Geum Young Song witnessing.
The signed contracts provide for South Korean companies to collaborate with Tanzanian experts to execute the 152bn/- project.
Under the contract, South Korean company Ms GAS Entec and SUMA JKT have to jointly build the new ship at 88.7bn/- and commission it within two years.
The new ship will have the capacity to carry 1,200 passengers, 400 tonnes of cargo and 20 cars. Other works include construction of the 100-metre long slipway at 35.9bn/-, with two South Korean companies—Ms STX Engine Co and SAEKYUNG Construction Company—winning the job that has to be commissioned within 12 months.
The two old ships will be repaired with replacement of engines, power generators and other equipment to enable them operate efficiently, with the view of reinforcing transport services in the Lake Zone.
MV Victoria and MV Butiama will be rehabilitated at 22.7bn/- and 4.8bn/- respectively, with KTMI and Yuko’s Enterprises (EA) Co Ltd tasked to execute the projects.
President Magufuli said the building of the new ship as promised during his 2015 presidential campaigns had been delayed since MV Bukoba capsised over 22 years ago, insisting that this time around the work will be done and all deadlines strictly observed.
He challenged the Korean contractors to adhere to professionalism and punctuality in executing the projects, requesting Ambassador Song to ensure the signed contracts are respected and if possible the works are delivered before the scheduled deadline.
Dr Magufuli promised tight security at Mwanza South area throughout the project implementation, directing the Tanzania People’s Defence Forces (TPDF) to provide maximum security for smooth operations at the site.
He expressed confidence on the Korean firms, hinting that their appointment for the job was based on merits and credibility, thanks to Tanzanian decision to open the embassy in South Korea.
President Magufuli challenged the Marine Services Company Ltd (MSCL) to get ready for the tough task ahead, ensuring that it operates profitably, pays workers’ salaries timely and ultimately remitting dividend to the Treasury.
He directed MSCL, which has remained dormant for many years, to draw up clear strategies for future operations and become the full-fledged commercial entity as well as curbing previous sabotages.
“When I assumed office, I thought of dissolving this loss making company due to its past records of underperformance despite owning over 14 ships but I latter decided to revive it by injecting billions for its operations,” said the Head of State.
Ambassador Song praised Tanzania’s speedy economic growth, appreciating President Magufuli’s bold decision to revive the bilateral cooperation with his country.
“Since 1992, our bilateral ties have remained strong but they were further cemented during the Korean Prime Minister’s visit to Tanzania last July, the first visit of its kind in the last 26 years,” he said.
Daily News
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