This archive report was first published on 12 July 2020.
Published on July 12, 2020, Globology Ltd, a lake transport operator, is seeking to expand its network by selling franchises to canoe operators.
The firm, which has been operating on Lake Victoria for over 15 years, believes franchising will be a viable way of growing its frequency and route portfolio, which currently serves over 1,500 passengers daily between the mainland and island destinations.
According to Friedrich Neser, Globology's Chief Executive, the opportunity will enable the firm to partner with existing operators under its franchise model, allowing them to benefit from the 'waterbus' success story.
The firm runs a daily service on six routes, with the main one being the Luanda Kotieno to Mbita route that links Siaya and Homa Bay counties. The route is served by four daily return trips with a capacity of 100 passengers.
Globology already has a presence in Uganda, where it plans to commission four newly built vessels to serve Entebbe-Kampala and waterborne communities. The firm is also planning to expand its services to Tanzania and other eastern African lakes and islands.
Founded in 2005 by Scottish entrepreneur Malcolm Ormiston, Globology's 15-year story in Kenya started with its ambition to introduce modern work-boats to East Africa. The firm has designed and built several vessels, including the first 'waterbus,' MV Ringiti, which has transported over 758,623 passengers in 30,000 trips.
