Ruto heaps praise on Uhuru as he launches locally made ship

The construction of MV Uhuru II started in May 2021 and was completed in 24 months.

The 100-meter MV Uhuru II vessel, with a capacity of carrying up to 22 wagons and an estimated two million litres of crude oil per trip, is the first ship to be assembled by Kenyans in the country.

The president described the project as a major milestone in the country's journey of economic transformation.

"The work of building this new vessel and upgrading Kisumu Shipyard has been undertaken by Kenya professionals in a project which provided many young people with practical ship-building skills through apprenticeship and on-the-job training and was completed within 24 months and within its budget," he said.

He praised former President Uhuru Kenyatta for coming up with the idea to construct a Shipyard in Kisumu.

"I must congratulate my predecessor, President Kenyatta, for his foresight in coming up with this shipyard," he said.

"One morning, he asked me to visit Kisumu to see what the military could do. We came here, and it was a heap of dirt and wreckage. What we see today is a great change. I must thank President Kenyatta and the leadership of the military for this foresight," he added.

MV Uhuru II at the Kisumu Shipyard on October 09, 2023. [Michael Mute, Standard]

The President noted that the Kenya Shipyard is quickly emerging as a leading centre of shipbuilding and maritime excellence.

Kenya Shipyard Managing Director Brigadier Paul Otieno said the ship construction serves as an example and testament to the spirit of innovation, commitment, teamwork, craftsmanship and collaboration that defines their organisation.

The MD explained that the genesis of the vessel's construction arose from the need to complement MV Uhuru 1 operated by Kenya Railways and constructed in 1965.

Brig Otieno said together, the two ships now boast of a capacity to transport more than 2200 tonnes of petroleum, other liquids and loose cargo.

The MD noted that MV Uhuru II was built under strictly approved international standards and specifications.

"The vessel underwent rigorous Lake worthiness trials, cargo load testing and safety tests to ensure the highest safety and quality standards. The construction of the vessel represents a monumental stride in harnessing our industrial potential to posture economic growth," added Brig Otieno.

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