Currently, only short-run ferries exist to transport to some islands on Lake Victoria. The last operational long distance passenger ferry sank in 1996 (see: http://community.seattletimes.nwsource.com/archive/?date=19960612&slug=2334247 ).

However, an Everett, Washington boatbuilder and his workers are crafting wooden catamarans for a fleet of ferries to strengthen transport and commerce across Lake Victoria, Africa's biggest lake. It is a fascinating story of vision, entrepreneurship, and modern day adventure.

Here's a LINK to a recent article in the Seattle Times:
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2009674875_africaferry17.html
.
Also see: http://www.earthwiseventures.com/The_Ferry_Project.html
.