In Kamaliba Village, located in Nabyewanga Parish, Nkozi Sub-county, Mpigi District, fishermen who received funds under the Parish Development Model (PDM) are facing challenges in utilizing the money effectively. According to Sulaiman Kaweesi, the Local Council (LC1) Chairperson of Kamaliba, the fishermen lack the necessary resources and knowledge to make the most of the funds provided by the government.
Challenges Faced by Fishermen
Kaweesi explained that while the government disbursed funds to support fishermen, many of them are struggling to use the money productively. He emphasized the need for additional support to help fishermen purchase high-quality fishing equipment and improve their livelihoods.
“The government’s intention is good, but the fishermen need more than just money. They require guidance and resources to buy the right tools and improve their fishing practices,” Kaweesi said.
High Interest Rates from Money Lenders
Many fishermen in the area have resorted to borrowing money from banks and money lenders to supplement the PDM funds. However, the high interest rates charged by these lenders have left them in a cycle of debt, further exacerbating their financial struggles.
“The fishermen are trapped in a vicious cycle. They borrow money at high interest rates, and when they fail to repay, they lose their property and fall deeper into poverty,” Kaweesi added.
Lack of Proper Fishing Practices
Some fishermen have also been unable to maximize their earnings due to a lack of proper fishing techniques and equipment. This has led to low catches and, in some cases, restrictions on fishing activities, which have further worsened their economic situation.
“Without the right tools and knowledge, the fishermen cannot compete effectively. This has led to poor catches and increased poverty in the community,” Kaweesi noted.
Call for Government Intervention
Kaweesi called on the government to provide additional support to the fishermen, including training programs and access to affordable fishing equipment. He also urged the government to regulate money lenders to protect vulnerable communities from exploitative practices.
“The government needs to step in and provide more comprehensive support to the fishermen. This includes training, affordable equipment, and protection from exploitative lenders,” he said.
Conclusion
The challenges faced by fishermen in Kamaliba Village highlight the need for a more holistic approach to implementing the Parish Development Model. While the funds provided under PDM are a step in the right direction, additional support is required to ensure that beneficiaries can use the money effectively and improve their livelihoods.
As the government continues to roll out the PDM program, stakeholders hope that these issues will be addressed to ensure that all beneficiaries, including fishermen, can reap the full benefits of the initiative.
