Fishing communities along the shores of Lake Victoria are grappling with frequent conflicts associated with dwindling fish catches.
The conflicts are threatening their livelihoods and the sustainability of the sector.
The Chairperson of Suba South Beach Management Unit William Onditi, said that frequent fighting has disrupted operations and weakened cooperation within the fishing community.
Speaking on Tuesday during a stakeholders’ engagement forum in Homa Bay town, Onditi noted that the destruction of fishing grounds caused by illegal practices and environmental degradation has further worsened the situation.
The chairperson emphasized the need to educate fishermen on sustainable practices and adherence to fisheries regulations.
“Failure to follow the set rules is one of the biggest contributors to the crisis we are facing,” he said.
On his part, Edward Oremo, the Homa Bay County Beach Management Unit Chairperson, pointed out that overdependence on fish as the primary source of food and income has placed immense pressure on the lake’s resources.
He warned that without diversification, the community risks exhausting the very resource it depends on.
Oremo also pointed out the issue of cross-border conflicts, with fishermen reporting attacks from their counterparts in the neighbouring countries.
These disputes, often linked to unclear boundaries and competition over fishing zones, have created insecurity on the lake.
Stakeholders called for harmonization of fisheries policies and clearer demarcation of boundaries to reduce tensions.
Oremo also identified unemployment as a major driver of overfishing, noting that limited alternative economic opportunities forced residents to rely solely on fishing for survival.
This has led to increased competition and unsustainable harvesting practices.
Participants at the meeting stressed the importance of creating alternative sources of livelihood to reduce pressure on fisheries.
They also called for greater community involvement in fisheries management and stricter enforcement of laws.
Director of Fisheries Michael Omondi said plans were underway to develop and implement policies, aimed at restoring order and sustainability in the sector.
However, the stakeholders agree that their success would largely depend on cooperation between the government, local communities and regional partners.
Meanwhile, as these challenges persist, the future of fishing in Homa Bay County hangs in the balance, calling for urgent and coordinated action.
By Shanel Kwamboka and Davis Langat
