By Richard Onapatum
Illegal fishing gear worth sh784 million, impounded from Lake Kyoga over the past four months, was destroyed by the Fisheries Protection Unit (FPU) at Sangai Landing site in Kalaki District on June 1, 2024. The public destruction, witnessed by local leaders, the community, and fishermen, aimed to demonstrate transparency and deter the use of illegal equipment.
Cpt. Deogracious Kato, the Serere sector commander overseeing FPU operations in Serere, Soroti, Kalaki, and Kaberamaido, emphasized that the public burning served as proof against allegations of reselling confiscated gear. It also aimed to warn those who persist in illegal practices.
The destroyed gear included fifty seine nets, forty-two cast nets, two thousand undersized gill nets, 1.2 million monofilament nets, and over two thousand illegal boats. Kato highlighted the substantial financial loss to encourage fishermen to switch to government-approved equipment.
“We will continue our operations in Lake Kyoga and urge leaders and the community to join us in fighting illegal fishing gear,” Kato stated. He stressed the importance of sustainable fishing practices for government revenue and local livelihoods.
Community Reactions
Julius Okisa, a fisherman from Sangai Landing site, acknowledged the significant loss for those who invested in illegal gear. “It is now time for us as fishermen to change to avoid losing money,” he said.
Margaret Akello, a resident of Sangai in Kalaki, noted that the high cost of recommended gear tempts some fishermen to use illegal alternatives. She urged a shift in mindset to prevent family losses.
Kenneth Epiku, LC3 of Ocelakur sub-county, suggested that fishermen form groups to purchase approved gear collectively.
Selin Asamo, a resident of Napyanga, praised the government’s steps toward sustainable lake use but emphasized the need for community cooperation.