By Eumu Emmanuel
Lands Minister Judith Nabakooba has directed the Fisheries Protection Unit (FPU) to return impounded fishing gear to fishermen operating on Lake Wamala in Mityana District.
The minister’s directive comes after President Museveni’s recent visit to Mityana, where fishermen reported their challenges to him. A team of fishermen, led by Minister Nabakooba, also met with the President at State House to discuss the issue.
The impounded fishing gear includes four-inch fishing nets and flat boats less than the recommended 28 meters. Minister Nabakooba argued that Lake Wamala is a shallow lake and should be used as a test case for new regulations.
“In the case of making new regulations, let’s use Lake Wamala as a test case. Return the four-inch nets and flat boats,” she directed.
The FPU is currently undertaking public consultations to gather opinions that will guide the development of new regulations expected to be rolled out next year.