Fishmongers at Humukungu Landing Site in Lake Katwe Sub-county, Kasese District, have raised concerns over the implementation of President Yoweri Museveni’s directive aimed at restoring order on Lakes George and Edward. The directive limits each landing site to 33 fishing boats and allows a maximum of four fishmongers to operate from a single boat, measures intended to curb overfishing and protect declining fish stocks.

Tension continues to grow among fishing communities at Humukungu Landing Site following the enforcement of new fisheries regulations on Lakes George and Edward.

The directive, issued as part of efforts to protect fish stocks and promote sustainable fishing practices, has significantly reduced the number of boats and traders permitted to operate on the lakes.

Many fishmongers say the measures, while aimed at conservation, have negatively affected their livelihoods and left hundreds of families uncertain about their future.

Yowasi Mugenyi, an 87-year-old fishmonger who has spent more than six decades in the fishing business, described the directive as unfair and impractical.

He said fishing remains his only source of income and warned that the restrictions could push many families deeper into poverty.

Another fishmonger, Ndyanabo Paul, echoed similar concerns, saying the new arrangements have created uncertainty among traders who depend entirely on fishing activities.

The Chairperson of the Lake Katwe Fisheries Management Committee, James Rwakasenyi, said requiring several fishmongers to share a single boat has created operational challenges and could trigger conflicts among community members.

He warned that the arrangement may also pose security risks if not properly managed.

Women involved in the fish trade say they have been among the most affected by the directive.

Asiimwe Grace, a widow and fish trader at Humukungu Landing Site, said her income has drastically declined, making it difficult to pay school fees and meet basic household needs.

Keren Cleam, another resident whose family depends on fishing activities, said many households are struggling to survive following the restrictions.

Ndyanabo Paul also criticized local authorities, accusing the resident district commissioner's office of implementing the directive without adequate consultation with affected stakeholders.

He called for dialogue between government and fishing communities before further enforcement measures are undertaken.

Keren Cleam appealed to government to consider the welfare of fishing families and develop solutions that balance environmental protection with community livelihoods.

As concerns continue to emerge from Humukungu, Kasenyi, and other landing sites, fishing communities are calling for broader consultations to ensure that conservation efforts do not leave vulnerable families without a source of income.

Stakeholders say sustainable fisheries management remains important, but its implementation should also take into account the social and economic realities of the communities that depend on the lakes.