MV Liemba
The “Graf von Götzen,” built in Germany in 1913, is one of the world's oldest passenger ships still in service, moored at Kigoma port.
MV Liemba was originally named the Graf von Götzen. Built in Germany in 1913, it was shipped in pieces by sea and rail to Kigoma for assembly. During World War I it served as an armed German vessel controlling Lake Tanganyika; after the war it was salvaged by the British and renamed. It then ran for many years between Kigoma and Mpulungu in Zambia, serving as a lifeline for lakeside villages, and it is also believed to have inspired the film The African Queen. In recent years the ship's aging condition has led to repeated suspensions for repairs. It is currently moored at Kigoma port, and whether passengers can board must be confirmed locally; visitors can admire and photograph it from the shore. Photography in the port area may be restricted, so ask for permission first.
Opening hours
During harbor opening hours
Nearby sights
- Kigoma Railway Station
- Kibirizi Fishing Village
- Jakobsen's Beach
- Ujiji Old Town & Lakeshore
- Livingstone Memorial, Ujiji
- Gombe Stream National Park
- Mahale Mountains National Park