Fishing communities on Lake George in Kitagwenda District are appealing to the government to review the current fishing regulations by increasing the number of licensed boats allowed at each landing site from 33 to 66.
The fishermen also want the number of crew members on each boat reduced from four to two, saying the change would allow more households to earn a living while maintaining efforts to conserve fish stocks.
Mahyoro Landing Site Chairperson Annet Nakalema said the presidential directive against illegal fishing has helped restore fish populations, but many families are now struggling because fishing is their only source of income.
She explained that the current limit of 33 boats per landing site has left many fishermen without work, despite their dependence on the lake for survival.
Nakalema believes increasing the number of licensed boats while reducing the crew size would create more employment opportunities without undermining conservation efforts.
The fishing communities are now urging the government and the relevant authorities to consider their proposal, saying it would balance environmental protection with the livelihoods of people who depend on Lake George.