By Brian Keitira
Lampara fishing, also known as “Lampara netting,” is a fishing method that has been proposed for use in Uganda’s lakes and rivers as an alternative to the previously banned “hurry up” method. However, its introduction has raised concerns among fisheries stakeholders.
Although Lampara nets have not yet been used in Uganda’s waters, their potential introduction poses a significant risk to the long-term sustainability of Uganda’s fish stocks and the livelihoods of fishermen who depend on them.
The use of Lampara nets is problematic for several reasons. They can lead to overfishing and depletion of fish stocks, particularly Nile Tilapia and Nile Perch, which are already under pressure from overfishing and habitat degradation. Additionally, Lampara nets are often used with other destructive fishing methods, such as lights to attract fish, which can further exacerbate the decline of fish populations. They also catch juvenile fish, including Nile Tilapia and Nile Perch, before they have a chance to mature and reproduce, which can have devastating consequences for the future of these species and the entire ecosystem.
However, since the ban on Mukene fishing was put in place in February 2024, the government of Uganda has seen a significant increase in earnings from the fisheries sector. In February 2024, the total earnings from the fisheries sector were $12 million, which increased to $15 million in March 2024 and $18 million in April 2024. This is a significant improvement compared to the same period in 2023 when Mukene fishing was still ongoing, with total earnings of $8 million in February 2023, $10 million in March 2023, and $12 million in April 2023.
This increase in earnings is a clear indication that the ban on Mukene fishing has had a positive impact on the sustainability of the fisheries sector and the earnings of the government.
In contrast, traditional fishing methods, such as Kyoota or fishing during specific moon phases, are more sustainable and selective. These methods allow fishermen to target specific species while minimizing bycatch and protecting juvenile fish. Moreover, traditional methods are often more accessible and affordable for small-scale fishermen, who make up the majority of Uganda’s fishing community.
The use of Lampara nets also has economic implications. Uganda’s fishing industry is a significant contributor to the country’s economy, generating millions of dollars in revenue each year. However, if Lampara nets are allowed to continue, they will likely lead to a decline in fish stocks, which will ultimately impact Uganda’s earnings from the fishing industry.
In fact, the Fisheries Protection Unit has severally arrested Mukene fishermen with immature fish, which had caused losses to factories, leading to their closure due to a lack of enough fish for processing. The banning of Mukene by the State Minister of Fisheries, Hon. Hellen Adoa, in February 2024, and the strict enforcement by Fisheries Protection Unit under Lt. Col. Mercy has greatly brought back life to Ugandan fish factories.
Therefore, I urge President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the government of Uganda to consider the long-term consequences of allowing Lampara nets. Rather than succumbing to pressure from a few individuals, the government should engage in a dialogue with stakeholders to ensure that Mukene fishers benefit from traditional methods of fishing that do not deplete Uganda’s fish stocks.
Additionally, the government should consider the affordability of Lampara nets, which are often out of reach for the majority of poor fishermen. Allowing the use of Lampara nets would only benefit a select few, while putting the entire fishing industry at risk.
In a nutshell, preserving Uganda’s fish stocks requires a collective effort from the government, fishermen, and other stakeholders. By promoting traditional and sustainable fishing practices, we can ensure the long-term sustainability of our fish stocks and the livelihoods of those who depend on them.
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