Fishermen Alarmed by Decline in Tilapia Populations in Lake Victoria
Local fishermen are sounding the alarm over a drastic decline in tilapia populations, attributing the crisis to rampant pollution and illegal fishing practices.
Reports from the region indicate that various institutions are discharging untreated waste into the lake, exacerbating the already critical situation. Hamis Onyunga, a fisherman from Muhuru Bay, expressed his frustrations, stating, “Most of our fishing missions have been ineffective because the lake is polluted.” The dwindling fish stocks are severely impacting the livelihoods of the local fishing community.
Charles Juma, a fisherman from Migingo Island, echoed these concerns, highlighting the alarming presence of physical waste in their fishing nets. “In most cases, a lot of physical waste, including plastics and polythene bags, are caught in our fishing nets,” Juma noted.
The fishermen are urgently calling for government intervention to tackle both pollution and illegal fishing activities. They warn that without immediate action, Lake Victoria’s health will continue to decline, leading to further decreases in fish populations and jeopardizing the livelihoods of thousands who rely on fishing.
Once a thriving ecosystem rich in diverse fish species, Lake Victoria now faces severe challenges from industrial waste and plastic debris. The situation is worsened by overfishing and harmful practices, disrupting the delicate aquatic balance and raising concerns about long-term implications for both community health and economic stability.
The fishermen’s plight underscores the critical need for comprehensive environmental policies and stricter enforcement against illegal fishing practices to protect the future of Lake Victoria
By Yvonne Victor
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