The Ministry of Transport and Public Works has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the sinking of the MV Mtendere at Monkey Bay Port in Mangochi District.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry on 29 September 2026, the MV Mtendere, owned by Malawi Lake Services Limited, sank on 28 September 2026 while docked at Monkey Bay Port.
The Ministry said the vessel began operating in 1980 as a passenger and cargo ship on Lake Malawi.
It was withdrawn from its regular routes in 2002 and subsequently taken out of service.
The Ministry said the vessel experienced several operational and financial challenges during its years of service, including rising fuel and maintenance costs, which contributed to the suspension of its operations.
Investigations are being conducted in collaboration with the Malawi Police Service to establish the circumstances that led to the incident.
The Ministry has assured the public that the findings will be made public once the investigation is concluded.
Meanwhile, the Ministry said preparations for the disposal of the MV Mtendere and other non-operational vessels—including MV Nkhwazi, MV Mpeasa and MV Mcheni—had already commenced before the sinking.
According to the Ministry, the disposal process is being carried out in accordance with the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Act and other government-approved procedures.
The Ministry has further assured the public that the government is taking necessary measures to safeguard public assets awaiting disposal. It said the disposal process will be conducted lawfully, orderly and transparently.
