Kapale must rise again!

          Water transport is the fortitude of Luapula Province’s economy and livelihoods.

The Province’s big lakes like Bangweulu and Mweru play a crucial role as major fishing hubs where fishing is pivotal for protein and income source for locals.

In Nchelenge District, Lake Mweru remains such a giant trade route that facilitates movement of goods from the main land into the several islands dotted on the natural water body, thereby boosting economic activities.

          Government, through the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, is aware of all the aforementioned needs and wants at Nchelenge Harbour.

This is evidenced by the recent visit to the District by Transport and Logistics Minister Hon. Frank Tayali.

The District Administration is also awe-struck that Government wants to bring back life to the area by revitilising the harbour.

          Nchelenge District Commissioner Denson Chishimba said the District Planning Authority underestimated reduced water levels caused by environmental changes on the lake during the construction of the landing jetty. He said the water levels on the lake have been reducing over the years and there was need to have the landing jetty extended at sea by about another eight metres.

Mr. Chishimba said other delays on the repairs of the Kapale, the main Government transport vessel on the lake, was due to administrative changes from the then Ministry of Transport and Communications – now Ministry of Transport and Logistic – to Zambia Postal Services under the Ministry of Technology and Science.

          And Mulwe Ward Counsellor Wise Mulenga called for immediate re-launch of Kapale onto the Mweru waters. He said the expanse of the lake poses a big risk to travelers who have to rely on dug-out canoes and small boats.