Uganda and Tanzania are looking to revive transport links across Lake Victoria in a bid to boost trade and ease the cost of doing business. But as officials met in Jinja to discuss new opportunities, concerns emerged over the state of some of Uganda's transport infrastructure.

As Uganda and Tanzania push for greater trade through Lake Victoria, transport officials from the two countries have met in Jinja to chart a path towards improved railway and marine connectivity. The talks come at a time when concerns remain over the state of some of Uganda's transport infrastructure, seen as critical to supporting increased cargo movement along the Central Corridor.

Officials also visited the Ripon Falls port, where they found the facility in a poor state of operation. Whereas some of the workers at the port say the condition of the infrastructure has been affecting their operations, with frequent challenges in loading coal imported from Tanzania.

While Tanzania says it already invested heavily in upgrading its railway network, officials there believe the full potential of the corridor can only be realized if Uganda also improves its own railway infrastructure and port facilities to match ongoing developments across the border.

The Jinja meeting builds on last year’s engagement in Mwanza, Tanzania, where Uganda and Tanzania committed to strengthening transport links on Lake Victoria.

The Tanzania Shipping Company Limited says it is ready to boost both cargo and passenger transport across the lake, with Managing Director Eric Hamissi noting the introduction of the MV Mwanza Hapa Kazi Tu, which carries over 1,200 passengers and about 400 tonnes of cargo.

Hamissi says the talks are aimed at unlocking business opportunities and deepening cooperation between the two countries.

Meanwhile, Uganda Railways Corporation Board Chairman Daudi Migereko says the country is shifting focus to reviving its railway sector after years of slow activity. He is calling for urgent investment in locomotives, rail infrastructure, and modern ports to match regional progress.

Officials from both countries remain optimistic that deeper collaboration in railway and marine transport will boost trade, improve connectivity, and drive economic growth across the East African region.