Economic activities on Lake Malawi are expected to improve following the launch of a new vessel, MV Asidaya, on February 8, 2025, in Monkeybay, Mangochi.
The vessel will be ferrying people, agricultural produce, fish, and other goods from one destination to another.
Cecelia Mkondiwa Ngosi, a member of the MV Asidaya team, stated that the launch of MV Asidaya will spur economic development, as transportation remains a significant challenge in the country.
“With the arrival of MV Asidaya, we also expect a boost in the tourism industry, as people will be able to sail easily from one place to another,” Ngosi added.
Norah Mkawa, a businesswoman in Mangochi, welcomed MV Asidaya as an alternative to MV Ilala, which sails on Lake Malawi once a week.
She noted that most roads in Mangochi are in poor condition, making the vessel’s arrival timely.
“The coming of MV Asidaya will enable the efficient transportation of people and products,” Mkawa said.
Water transport on Lake Malawi remains crucial, despite receiving little attention from authorities. The launch of MV Asidaya is a significant step towards improving transportation and economic activities in the region.
