The Ministry of Defence has handed over MV Uhuru II to the Kenya Railways Corporation at the Kisumu Shipyard.
In a statement on Thursday, September 19, 2024, the Ministry of Defence said the vessel is set to transport crude oil and other cargo across Lake Victoria, facilitating trade between Kenya and Uganda.
“In a significant move to bolster regional trade and economic development, Defence Cabinet Secretary (CS) Hon. Soipan Tuya, alongside Roads and Transport CS Davis Chirchir, officially handed over the MV Uhuru II to the Kenya Railways Corporation at the Kisumu Shipyard today,” the statement read in part.
“Built by Kenya Shipyards Limited (KSL) under the Ministry of Defence, the vessel is set to transport crude oil and other cargo across Lake Victoria, facilitating trade between Kenya and Uganda.”
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya lauded KSL’s efforts in establishing Kenya as an emerging shipbuilding hub in East Africa.
“This is more than the transfer of a vessel; it’s the passing on of a legacy. MV Uhuru II will boost trade, enhance regional connectivity, and create jobs, driving economic growth in the Lake Victoria basin,” she said.
Among those present during the ceremony include Defence Principal Secretary Patrick Mariru, Transport PS Mohamed Daghar, Vice Chief of Defence Forces Lt. General John Omenda, KSL Managing Director Maj. Gen. Said Farah, Siaya Governor James Orengo, Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathews Owilo, and along with other senior government and military officials.
MV Uhuru II is expected to complement its predecessor, MV Uhuru I.
