environment 26 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Kalangala Reopens Lake Victoria Landing Sites to Boost Fish Stocks
Kalangala District has officially reopened Lulindi and Kagoonya landing sites on Lake Victoria after an eight-year closure. The move aims to support the recovery of fish populations, with strict warnings against renewed illegal fishing practices. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/kalangala-reopens-landing-sites-in-push-to-save-l-victoria-s-fish-stocks-5473594
After an eight-year hiatus, fishing activities have resumed at Lulindi and Kagoonya landing sites in Kalangala District. The sites, closed in 2017 due to illegal fishing, were reopened on May 25, 2026, by local authorities. However, Resident District Commissioner Fred Badda issued a stern warning: any landing site found harboring fishermen engaged in illegal activities will face immediate closure.
Authorities emphasized that continued illegal fishing is significantly hindering efforts to replenish fish stocks in Lake Victoria. To ensure compliance with new regulations, new fisheries committees have been established at both sites. These committees, composed of local fishermen, will work in conjunction with parish, sub-county, and district bodies, supported by the UPDF 155 Battalion, to eradicate illicit practices.
The closure had a profound economic impact on the community. Tadius Mwesigwa, chairperson of Lulindi, described the period as devastating, leading to significant poverty and school dropouts. Many residents turned to farming, often on marginal land suitable only for low-value crops. Previously, Lulindi had over 50 boats, many used illegally; now, it begins anew with 10 legally approved vessels, with residents actively constructing more compliant boats.
The District Fisheries Officer, Adrian Kavuma, highlighted illegal fishing gear as the primary threat to Lake Victoria’s biodiversity. He noted that illegal nets apprehend an estimated 250 million immature fish daily, severely endangering species like the Nile Perch. The use of substandard nets, such as monofilament and undersized gill nets, targets juvenile tilapia and Nile Perch. Kavuma stated that saving this daily catch could significantly restore fish stocks within six years.
As Lulindi and Kagoonya welcome back legitimate fishing operations, the focus remains on sustainable practices and community involvement to protect and revive Lake Victoria’s valuable fishery resources. The reopening signifies a renewed commitment to balancing economic livelihoods with environmental conservation.