Under the command of Lt Col Mercy Adah Tukahirwa, the UPDF Fisheries Protection Unit (FPU) executed a recent operation to eradicate illegal fishing gear valued at Shs 423 million at the Kawongo landing site on Lake Kyoga (Kayunga district).
The confiscated gear, including seine nets, cast nets, mina filament nets, undersized hooks, and gill nets, was destroyed as part of a concerted effort to combat the rampant illegal fishing trade and enhance regulation in the lucrative fisheries industry.
Lt Col Tukahirwa oversaw the operation during a three-day tour aimed at sensitizing and engaging fishing communities dependent on Lake Kyoga for their livelihoods. The tour covered Kawongo, Lwampanga (Nakasongola district), and Namasale (Amolatar district) landing sites, providing an opportunity for community-FPU interaction to address challenges and promote legal fishing practices.
Expressing gratitude for President Museveni’s steadfast support in bolstering fish production, Lt Col Tukahirwa emphasized the importance of sustainable fishing methods to preserve water bodies and ensure the long-term viability of the fishing sector.
Highlighting the urgent need for collaboration between FPU troops and local communities, she underscored the detrimental impact of encroachment on water bodies and urged leaders in Amolatar district to prioritize government initiatives aimed at curbing illegal activities on lakes.
While extending amnesty to some fishermen with impounded gear, Lt Col Tukahirwa cautioned against continued involvement in illegal fishing activities.
Local residents and landing site chairpersons pledged cooperation with FPU personnel and credited President Museveni’s leadership for the observed increase in fish stocks, particularly Nile Perch and Tilapia.
However, challenges persist, including theft of boat engines and fishing nets, inadequate resources for acquiring recommended fishing gear, insufficient FPU presence in certain areas, and concerns over heavy-handed tactics in dealing with suspected violators.
Since President Museveni launched the crackdown on illegal fishing in 2017, there has been a notable uptick in fish stocks across Uganda’s lakes and rivers.
Accompanying Lt Col Tukahirwa were Amolatar RDC Francis Okello Rwothony, LC V Vice Chairperson for Amolatar Onyang Peter Sam, Amolatar Workers’ Councilor Hon Eumu Patrick Kauma, FPU Intelligence Officer Maj Joseph Cherop, FPU Operations Officer Frank Kanzira, and FPU Public Information Officer Lt Lauben Ndifula, among others.
