Lake Transport Users Cry Foul Over MV Ilala Fare Increase
Published on March 10, 2026 at 12:32 PM by Evance Kapito
Water transport users have expressed concern over the recent 50 percent increase in transport fares for MV Ilala, saying the hike is unfair and will place a heavy burden on passengers.
One passenger, Alice Gondwe from Rumphi, said the increase will affect many people who rely on the vessel for travel and trade. She said authorities should have considered a smaller increase, such as 25 percent, instead of raising fares by half.
Sharing similar concerns, Master James from Monkey Bay argued that the current condition of MV Ilala does not justify such a significant fare hike. He suggested that authorities should consider introducing another vessel if they intend to adjust the fares.
However, Malawi Lake Services Chief Executive Officer Joseph Banda has defended the decision, saying the increase has been driven by rising fuel costs.
Banda explained that MV Ilala generates about K50 million per voyage, but approximately K25 million is spent on fuel alone, excluding other operational costs such as maintenance.
He added that the situation leaves the company with little to no profit, making the fare adjustment necessary to sustain operations.
