Fishermen along Lake Victoria's Namirembe shores in Masaka District have petitioned President Museveni over wealthy individuals allegedly seizing fishing grounds. Communities from Marembo, Ddimo, and surrounding islands accuse businessman Kayuki, a Tanzanian conflict migrant, of colluding with officials to monopolise prime fishing spots while displacing locals. Â
The conflict escalated when Kayuki's workers allegedly destroyed five fishing boats belonging to residents who refused to vacate waters they've fished for generations. Jamir Mukasa, a community leader, revealed that wealthy operators now dominate lucrative fishing plots while locals face taxation without access. Â
Local NRM chairperson John Baptist Lwasa and sub-county speaker Bbale Mudasiru urged authorities to protect ancestral fishing rights. Deputy RDC Robert Kambugu pledged to escalate the matter to higher government levels after verifying claims. Â
The standoff highlights growing tensions over Lake Victoria's dwindling resources, with youth leader Pasikaziya Kkansala noting many dropouts turn to illegal fishing after lacking secondary education opportunities. Â
By Usher Tumusuuta
