Mpigi Leaders Fear New Fishing Rules Will Spark Crime Wave

Leaders in Buwama Sub-county, Mpigi District, have voiced significant concerns about the impact of new, stringent fishing regulations on Lake Victoria. They fear these measures, if implemented without support, could push thousands into unemployment and consequently fuel a rise in crime along the district’s numerous fishing landing sites.

Sub-county Chairperson Deo Sendegeya and several councillors highlighted that the current regulations, described as excessively costly and restrictive for average fishermen, may destabilize communities heavily reliant on the fishing sector. Many residents involved in fishing, boat repair, transportation, and fish processing now face an uncertain future.

Buwama Sub-county’s economy is deeply tied to the lake, with an estimated 60% of its population depending directly or indirectly on fishing and related businesses. Landing sites like Senyondo, Bukiina, and Golo are hubs for thousands of workers across the entire fishing value chain.

Councillor Joseph Senkumba specifically questioned the practicality of limiting landing sites to 66 boats and 200 fishermen. He pointed out that the requirement for a standard boat costing around Shs30 million is beyond the reach of most local fishermen, effectively barring them from the industry. Furthermore, restrictions on silverfish fishing, particularly the ban on using lights, were criticized as making the activity unviable, as it heavily relies on such methods.

Chairperson Sendegeya warned that widespread unemployment in these communities could create fertile ground for increased criminal activity, similar to recent cattle theft incidents in the region. He stressed the vulnerability of the large youth population, including migrants, who depend on fishing for survival, noting that “When you have many young people with no jobs and no land for farming, the situation can easily become difficult.”

The leaders are appealing to the government to reconsider and review aspects of the regulations. They are also proposing supportive measures, such as affordable credit schemes and assistance with acquiring boats and fishing gear, to help fishermen comply without losing their livelihoods. “You cannot save the lake while sacrificing entire communities,” they stated, emphasizing that economic exclusion could hinder efforts towards sustainable fishing.

These warnings come in the wake of directives for stricter enforcement on Lake Victoria, including licensing, boat limits, and severe penalties for illegal fishing. The situation underscores a growing tension between conservation efforts and the economic realities faced by communities depending on the lake.

This report is based on information from Nile Post.