The Mukono South Member of Parliament, Robert Maseruka has called for urgent amendments to fishing regulations, including halving the 200-square-kilometre Lacteine Protected Area, in a bid to protect endangered species while safeguarding communities that depend on fishing for survival.
Maseruka made the call this week while addressing fishermen and local leaders in Mukono District, amid growing public concern over alleged exploitation and restricted access to fishing grounds.
According to the legislator, the current size of the protected area, while intended for conservation, has placed an enormous burden on artisanal fishermen who are struggling to sustain their families. He argued that reducing the protected zone by half would strike a balance between environmental protection and community livelihoods.
“Our people respect conservation, but they also need to eat and earn. If we can protect the most critical breeding zones while opening up part of the 200 square kilometres for regulated community fishing, we protect both the fish and the people,” Maseruka said.
He further emphasised that any amendment must still prioritise the protection of endangered species, with strict enforcement against destructive gear and illegal fishing methods.
His remarks come against a backdrop of complaints from local fishermen who say they are being locked out of productive waters.
However, the Mukono District Fisheries Officer, Mustafa Kalyango revealed that some officials allegedly continue fishing inside the protected area, effectively limiting access for local fishermen who are meant to benefit from its sustainable management.
Kalyango said the practice has fueled resentment and undermined conservation efforts, calling for transparency and equal enforcement of the rules.
“We have received complaints that access is selective. If the protected area is for regeneration, then no one should be fishing there, not even officials,” Kalyango noted.
Fishermen in the area have welcomed Maseruka’s proposal, saying it could restore confidence in fisheries management and reduce illegal fishing driven by desperation.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries is yet to respond to the proposed amendments.
