Mukasa Mbidde embarks on campaign to end illegal fishing

Mr Mukasa Mbidde speaks to some of the targeted fishermen who will be trained in various sustainable fishing activities. Photo by G. Mutyaba

KALANGALA- Mr Fred Mukasa Mbidde, a member of the East African Legislative Assembly has said that government should sensitise fishermen good fishing practices if it’s to sustainably end illegal fishing.

 Mr Mbidde says instead of treating the symptom of illegal fishing by closing landing sites, where suspected fishermen who practice illegal fishing are based, the government should make them aware that such practices are dangerous to their economic activity and survival.

 “I don’t think the current closure of landing sites countrywide is helpful. The fishermen should be engaged and made to understand the dangers of illegal fishing. If they are aware, they will abandon the practice,” Mr Mbidde said.

Mr Mbidde who is the vice president of the Opposition Democratic Party was launching Mbidde Foundation, at Senero Landing Site in Kalangala District, at the weekend.

He said the foundation intends to train fishermen on how to make fishing nets, cage fishing, boat making among others.

He said the 5-month training will benefit over 200 youth.

“It’s high time I started implementing programmes that can lift young people on the islands from poverty,” Mr Mbidde said.

Kalangala District Community Development Officer Ms Hellen Nakimuli advised the youth to embrace the project.

Kalangala District Speaker, Ms Resty Nakawungu said if the fishermen are trained how to make boats, many of them will become boat owners.

She said a boat costs between Shs2 million and Shs3 million.

 Mr Robert Tugambise one of the beneficiaries said he has been jobless for over five years.

The Executive Director for Mbidde Foundation, Mr Moses Katende said the Kalangala project will cost over Shs300 million.

 About 15 landing sites on Lake Victoria were closed by UPDF officers following reports that they were havens for fishermen who carry out illegal fishing.