MV Mbeya II passenger ship will now operate weekly, linking Kiwira port in Kyela, Mbeya Region and Mbambabay port in Ruvuma Region, being shifted from .its fortnight schedule.

David Kihenzile, the Transport deputy minister, spoke of this change when visiting Kiwira port, explaining that it will enhance transportation efficiency, improving connectivity between the two regions.

The change takes effect right away, with the ship departing from Kiwira on Thursday and arriving at Mbambabay the following day, and make the return trip on Saturday, to anchor in Kyela on Sunday.

“The revised schedule is designed to improve transportation efficiency,’ he said, affirming that t residents will benefit from the government's investments in transport infrastructure,” he said.

The previous schedule faced constraints- from rising water levels in the lake, disrupting operations, while the weekly schedule eases the transport of goods and passengers.

This will in turn boost economic activities among the lakeside communities, he said, while Kyela MP Ally Mlagila said the new timetable will improve connectivity between the two regions.

Remote communities relying on the ship for transportation of goods and other needs will especially benefit, he said.

Ludewa MP Joseph Kamonga also applauded the initiative, pointing out at the need to upgrade freight ships to complement passenger services and ensure that goods can be transported who ease.

Introducing weekly services for MV Mbeya II a step forward in boosting regional trade and enhancing transportation options for traders and other port users in the Lake Nyasa area, he said.

Manga Gasaya, the Lake Nyasa ports manager, said that poor road infrastructure linking Kyela town to the ports is a major challenge.

The government needs to address this issue to facilitate smoother connections between the ports and surrounding areas, he added.