Speaking during the signing ceremony, Secretary for Transport Bright Kumwembe said the MoU will see the company build vessels such as oil tankers and freighters saying it will help to ensure a steady supply of energy and other resources in Malawi while reducing damage to the M1 road caused by heavy goods vehicles.and agricultural products, and allow Malawi to tap into its competitive advantages.
“We are aware that on the lake we have Malawi Lake Services, which operates a number of vessels, including the Ilala The Ilala is an old vessel that needs to be replaced,” he said.
According to Kumwembe, this is a major opportunity for Malawi. He said the company has committed to delivering the first vessel within a year, and that the new vessel will operate on the route currently served by the Ilala
In his remarks, Managing Director of Xiao Xiang Investment Company Limited, Chen Cheng, said the relationship between China and Malawi continues to grow. He noted that during his time in Malawi, he observed that lake transport has been facing challenges.
“It is an advantage for the country, Malawi to have these ships so that the transportation and movement of goods can be convenient,” he said.
Cheng added that with the agreement now signed, the first vessel will be available within one year.
Director Responsible for Marine Services Lloyd Banda, said he is encouraged by any opportunity that brings renewed focus to the development of Malawi’s inland water transport sector.
He highlighted that Lake Malawi remains one of the nation’s most valuable natural assets, facilitating the movement of people and goods while connecting communities along its shores.
Banda called on investors, development partners, financial institutions, and other stakeholders to work closely with the government in supporting initiatives that will transform the transport sector.
