The event was part of the activities to mark the 18 years of Afro-Arab council's existence and it attracted delegates from the subscriber countries of Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, United Arab Emirates-UAE, Bahrain, Libya, Morocco and Tunisia.
Bussi Island, which is 10kilometers away from Entebbe town, remains secluded and visibly detached from the rest of Wakiso district because of poor physical infrastructure and lack of proper transport means.
The Uganda National Roads Authority is finalizing works on MV Sigulu, the largest ferry in Uganda so far, which will connect Namayingo district to the islands of Sigulu and Dolwe. The ferry constructed by a Danish Johs Gram Hanssen –JGH Marine has a capacity to carry 300 passengers, and close to 20 vehicles. It can move at a speed of 14 kilometres per hour.
Teachers of different schools in the area argue that the poor working conditions have discouraged them from executing their duties. They want the government to either improvise boats to transport teachers and pupils within the islands or construct teachers’ quarters.
Farouk Isabirye, the Bugonda Village Defense Secretary, says children within the affected areas are yet to commence studies because the only alternative they have is boats, which are costly. Each pupil requires Shillings 2000 to ride on a boat.
Some of the travelers led by Resty Nakawungu, the Mazinga Sub county Female LC V councilor told local officials at Kalangala district headquarters on Tuesday that they are unhappy with the way the boat operators load people and cargo, which exposes them to danger.
Our reporter saw Scene of Crime Officers visiting a crime scene dressed casually. Suwed Manshur, the Elgon Region Spokesperson, confirms the challenge, saying transport is a general problem in the force.
Gabriel Atama, the Kalangala District Chief Administrative Officer, says government hasnt remitted all the required money to construct the roads in the outlying islands.
