The Grindrod team was honoured to attend the inauguration and celebration of the commencement of operations of the M.V. MPUNGU in Port Bell, Uganda, on Friday, 31 January 2025.
The first roll-on / roll-off freight vessel, owned by East Africa Marine Transport and operated by Grindrod, will provide a scheduled service across Lake Victoria from Uganda to Tanzania.
With the capacity to carry up to 21 fully laden freight vehicles - the equivalent of up to 1 000 tonnes of freight - per crossing, it provides a cost-effective, efficient, and low-emission alternative for regional logistics.
The customers and the communities are at the heart of Grindrod's strategy and the heart of this project. With the M.V. Mpungu, Grindrod is committed to transforming freight transport across Lake Victoria by reducing transit times from days to hours and providing a reliable, cost-effective, and efficient scheduled service that will benefit businesses and communities alike.
Xolani Mbambo, CEO of Grindrod, thanked the captain and crew of the M.V. Mpungu for their warm hospitality and wished them well. "We wish you and all who sail aboard this vessel fair winds, smooth sailing, and safe returns."
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja unveiled a plaque on the ship to mark this historic milestone for regional and international trade.
