THE Lake Victoria Basin Commission yesterday said it is undertaking various projects aimed at improving maritime transport and safety in Lake Victoria. The commission's executive secretary Canisius Kanangire said once completed, the projects will significantly reduce fatalities and loss of property arising from maritime activities in the lake.

Activities to improve transport and safety on the lake include the ongoing implementation of the Lake Victoria Transport Act 2007. Kanangire said the commission wants to stimulate investment in lake transport. He however said the sector needs more funds to achieve their targets.

Other activities are conducting a hydrographic survey, mapping of navigation routes, installation of aids and navigation equipment and the implementation of oil spill and toxic chemcials contingency plan.

The activities will be implemented through the Lake Victoria Environment Management Project Phase II. About $10 million will be required to implement this project.