About a month ago, Malawi Shipping Company announced that it withdrew MV Ilala from Lake Malawi waters for routine maintenance. Malawi Company spokesperson Thomas Chafunya told Zodiak Radio that MV Chilembwe will replace MV Ilala, to keep operations functional as normal. A new development follows, as Mozambican High Commissioner to Malawi Dr Jose Maria Zita spoke of the newly launched MV Chambo.

The newly launched MV Chambo on Lake Malawi is expected to boost trade between Malawi and Mozambique, as well as easing challenges that people of Likoma and Chizumulu islands face, officials from the two countries say. “The people of Likoma and Chizumulu Islands were facing problems in accessing the mainland. This will help them in their businesses and communication. I urge other stakeholders to invest in water transport so as to curb monopoly of the transport.” Zita said.

Operated by OSLPS Mozambique-Malawi Limited, MV Chambo is sailing twice a week between Likoma and Nkhata Bay, as the development has eased the pressure off dependence of the MV Ilala.