The rich are interfering in fishing business, says minister

Expressing deep concern over the detrimental impact of this interference, the minister shed light on the exploitation and corruption exacerbating issues such as poor fishing methods.

The State Minister for Fisheries, Hellen Adoa, made startling revelations about the intrusion of wealthy individuals into traditionally poor fishing communities.

Expressing deep concern over the detrimental impact of this interference, the minister shed light on the exploitation and corruption exacerbating issues such as poor fishing methods.

"The rich have invaded our fishing communities, leading to increased corruption and exploitation," said Odoa, who addressing a news briefing on the ongoing challenges within the fisheries industry.

She, however, did not name any of the said "rich people."

The minsiter emphasised how the once-neglected silver fish, crucial for its nutritional value in poultry and animal feed, has now become a target for profit-seeking individuals, resulting in improper fishing practices.

Highlighting the injustices faced by impoverished fishermen, the minister lamented the loss of access and livelihoods as wealthy individuals monopolize fishing sites.

"Fishing used to be the domain of the poor, but now the rich are pushing them out," she said, underscoring the urgent need to address this imbalance.

The rampant corruption and interference from affluent parties have led to the degradation of Uganda's fisheries resources and threatened the livelihoods of countless fishermen and their families.

In response to these challenges, Adoa vowed to implement stringent measures to protect the interests of fishing communities and ensure sustainable fishing practices.

"We cannot allow greed and corruption to dictate the fate of our fisheries industry," she said.