The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Secretary General, Richard Todwong, has called on fishing communities and the Fish Protection Unit (FPU) to collaborate in tackling illegal fishing practices in Lake Kwania and Kyoga.
Todwong emphasised the need for cooperation to restore harmony and curb related crimes in the region, during a community baraza in Aorngo Sub County, Kwania District.
Fishing communities have long expressed grievances against UPDF officers, accusing them of torture during operations to enforce fishing regulations.
In response, the UPDF has cited the use of illegal fishing nets and gears by local fishermen, which depletes the lakes and compromises fish stock sustainability.
“We all agree that the government’s intervention was timely to control fishing activities on the lakes because without regulation, the lake is depleted with non-selective methods of catching fish,” Todwong stated.
He urged the locals to see the army as an ally in ensuring sustainable fishing practices rather than as adversaries.
“The army is not your enemy, use it to reduce confrontation,” he added.
Sgt. Maurice Tibamanya, the FPU’s Landing Officer for the Kwania-Dokolo sector, echoed Todwong’s sentiments, pledging the unit’s readiness to work closely with the communities to reduce tensions.
“We are at your service to guide on proper use of the lake for the good of the country,” Tibamanya said.
The baraza also had a political tone, with Todwong reminding the residents of Kwania to elect NRM flagbearers in the upcoming 2026 elections, to ensure continuity in development.
“Please endeavor to campaign for and elect our party candidates into office,” he urged.
Maj. Okwir Rabwoni, the NRM Director of Youth and Institutions, encouraged residents to embrace government programs aimed at poverty reduction, such as the Parish Development Model and Emyooga, and highlighted the government’s efforts to create an enabling environment for economic transformation.
“The role of the government is to put in place enablers like peace, security, and stability as foundations for economic transformation,” Okwir said.
He also praised the NRM’s efforts in decentralizing resources and improving infrastructure to boost service delivery in rural areas.
Maj. (Rtd) Awich Polar, the NRM Director of External Affairs, concluded by reassuring the public that the NRM remains a people-centered party that addresses their concerns and works towards solutions in line with the citizens’ needs.
