The Kenya Ferry Services (KFS) says it has resolved hurdles that held up the delivery of a Sh1 billion ferry.
KFS management said yesterday the builder, Ozata Shipyard of Turkey, would deliver Mv Safari at the Likoni channel by mid-January next year.
This was after the ship building company accepted a Sh49 million payout, following a dispute over delays occasioned by a court case between KFS and marine survey firm, Bonriz Insurance Marine Surveyors.
KFS and Ozata had been in talks for months after the latter slapped the state corporation with a Sh300 million bill, following the delays after the High Court stopped the construction of the vessel for nearly a year.
Ozata has already constructed the ferry, but will have to import an engine from Sweden and a steering system for installation over the next three months.
READ MORE
'Overloading' may have led to deadly Philippine ferry sinking
Sh1.9b shame: How poor planning, oversight gaps sank the Likoni floating bridge
Philippine ferry survivor describes scenes of panic, wait for rescue
“We have come to an agreement with the shipyard and we expect the ferry to be delivered by mid-January next year,” said KFS Managing Director Bakari Gowa.
He said the vessel will undergo sea trial for one and half months before it is transported to the country.