Major Karugaba, the representative of the Commanding Officer Fisheries Protection Unit (FPU), calls for cooperation among the fishing community in Wakiso as a way of fighting illegal practices on the lake and the fish business.
Maj. Karugaba made these remarks on November 30, 2023, while handing over an assortment of impounded items to the fishing community of Wakiso at a function that was held at the Gudda landing site in Entebbe. The items included boats, motorcycles, and engines.
“I urge everyone to cooperate with us and follow the fishing guidelines to avoid conflicting with the law,” Karugaba said.
Maj. Karugaba assured the fishing community that UPDF’s presence on the lake is for a reason and stressed that nobody is above the law, therefore they should adhere to the SOPs and fishing guidelines.
Ms. Jackline Kankunda, the Entebbe Deputy Resident District Commissioner, thanked the government for pardoning the fishermen and reminded them that the law against illegal fishing practices will continue to be enforced.
“I advise everyone carrying out fishing not to go against illegal fishing practices, transportation, and dealing in immature fish,” Kankunda stated.
The Deputy RDC advised the members of the fishing community to observe hygiene and promised that a community toilet would be constructed within the area.
The Mayor of Katabi Town Council, Ronald Kalema, thanked the army leadership for reviving the fishing economy because the fish stocks had been depleted.
He also called upon the fishermen to change their attitude towards soldiers because their role is to enforce the Fisheries Act, not to mistreat fishermen.
The function was attended by the speaker, Entebbe municipal council, area councilors, the Federation of Barriers Association, landing site chairmen, and AFARU representatives, among others.
