Katikkiro Mayiga Urges Kalangala Fishermen to Embrace Farming and Protect Lake Victoria

Buganda’s Prime Minister, Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga, has advised fishing communities in the Kalangala District to revive traditional conservation methods and take up agriculture to safeguard Lake Victoria’s depleting fish stocks.

Speaking to islanders at the Lwazi Bubeke Landing Site, Mayiga warned against the dangers of overreliance on the lake and destructive fishing practices. He pointed out that historical fishing traditions included designated days when fishermen stayed off the water to allow fish stocks to replenish, using that time instead to till the land for food security.

“Practise fishing that saves the lake,” Mayiga told the gathering. He emphasized that local communities must take ownership of the water bodies, avoid catching immature fish, and stop destructive harvesting methods to ensure long-term sustainability.

Aside from environmental conservation, the Katikkiro addressed the alarming rate of HIV in the archipelago, where district records indicate a prevalence rate of 12 percent—well above the national average. He urged residents to exercise personal responsibility, practice prevention, and strictly adhere to medical guidelines if diagnosed.

Local leaders echoed the premier’s sentiments. Kalangala District Chairperson Agnes Lunkuse highlighted the severe socio-economic challenges facing families due to recent fishing restrictions, noting that economic hardships have left many parents unable to provide basic necessities or school meals for their children.

Ssese County Chief Augustine Kasirye also encouraged residents to protect their natural resources and combine fishing with farming to establish a more resilient economic foundation across the islands.

Read the full report on the Daily Monitor.