Fishing communities along Lake Albert and the River Nile are calling on the government to reconsider newly introduced fishing regulations that limit the number of boats and fishermen allowed at landing sites, warning that the measures could worsen poverty and affect household welfare.
The fishermen say many families depend on fishing as their main source of income to meet basic needs such as food, education, and healthcare, including maternal and reproductive health services
They argue that government efforts should focus on eliminating illegal fishing practices and regulating fishing gear rather than reducing the number of boats and workers engaged in the sector. Simon Odoch, a resident of Panyango Sub-county, said stricter enforcement against illegal fishing methods would help protect fish stocks without depriving families of their livelihoods.
Other fishermen expressed concern that the restrictions could leave many households without income, leading to increased school dropouts, hunger, and social challenges among young people in fishing communities.
Under the new regulations, landing sites along the River Nile are limited to 15 fishing boats and 45 workers, while gazetted landing sites on lakes, including Albert and Kyoga, are allowed a maximum of 33 boats and 100 workers.
The Cultural Chief of Ker Kwonga in Panyimur Town Council, Stanley Ombidi, warned that the restrictions could push vulnerable families into alternative survival activities such as charcoal burning, while children, particularly girls, may be forced out of school because of financial hardships. He appealed to the government to introduce alternative livelihood programmes and education support initiatives for affected fishing communities.
Meanwhile, during a recent visit to Pakwach District, the NRM Secretary General, Richard Todwong, said the government has not stopped people from fishing but is promoting responsible and sustainable utilisation of water resources.Todwong also cautioned security personnel against harassing fishermen during enforcement operations. URN