Fishermen and boat owners at Mahyoro Landing Site in Kitagwenda District are appealing to the government to reconsider a new fisheries directive that caps the number of operating boats at 31. They warn the severe reduction will cause widespread job losses and deepen poverty for households dependent on the lake.
The situation has created significant tension within the Lake George fishing communities, which rely on the sector as their primary source of income. The fishermen and boat operators are specifically lobbying the government for the following
- Threatened Livelihoods: Fishing is the economic backbone of the area. Families rely on daily lake revenues to meet basic needs, pay school fees, and access healthcare.
- Appeal for Reconsideration: Operators are urging authorities to review the 31-boat limit and engage the community to find a sustainable balance.
- Commitment to Compliance: The fishermen have pledged strict adherence to fisheries regulations, conservation efforts, and water safety measures if they are allowed to continue operating. [