This
is the MV Liemba. The world’s
oldest passenger- and cargo ship still in service. Steeped in history, the
Liemba ploughs its way through the clear waters of Lake Tanganyika for 99 years
now!
As the
biggest ship in operation on Lake Tanganyika its importance to the people and
the countries around the lake is immense. Linking Tanzania and Zambia directly
– and servicing many ports along the way - the Liemba moves heaps of goods and
loads of passengers. Simply unmissable for the many that depend on its
movements.
Originally
built in 1913 in Germany as a Warship by the name of Graf van Gatzen, it
actively participated in the control over Lake Tanganyika in the early years of
the first World War. Scuttled in 1916 by her captain, the British Royal Navy
raised her again in 1927 and she then was recommisioned the MV Liemba –
changing her cannons for passengers and goods.
Living on
the unspoiled beaches of the Mahale Mountains National Park brings us close to
this fascinating ship. Twice a week it sails our horizon in the early hours of
the day. This time around we went for a more personal inspection and grabbed a
boat to get close.
We certainly
raise a glass on her centennial anniversary next year!
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