The Kenyan government is actively engaging with neighboring Uganda to address the persistent harassment of local fishermen operating on Lake Victoria. Interior and National Administration Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo announced that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been tasked with resolving the diplomatic dispute and halting cross-border disruptions on the lake. This move aims to establish a permanent solution to the issue.
PS Omollo revealed that the government is working to bolster the operational capacity of the Kenya Coast Guard Service (KCGS) to enhance lake patrols and deter unauthorized foreign incursions. The engagement was attended by Nyanza Regional Commissioner Onesmus Kyatha, Siaya County Commissioner Norbert Komora, Gem MP Elisha Odhiambo, and Bondo MP Gideon Ochanda. Strengthening the KCGS is part of the government's efforts to address the issue.
Alongside diplomatic efforts, the government is working to support the blue economy in the region. President William Ruto's administration is investing in the construction of nine modern fish landing sites around Lake Victoria. The state has also supplied fishermen with new fishing gear, specialized training, and safety equipment. Complementary onshore infrastructure is being rolled out to support the entire value chain.
The harassment of local fishermen has been a longstanding issue, with Uganda's involvement being a significant factor. PS Omollo emphasized the need for a permanent solution, stating that the government will look for enough funds to facilitate KCGS to beef up security in the lake. This move aims to make cases of insecurity a thing of the past.
Nyanza MPs, including Gem MP Elisha Odhiambo and Bondo MP Gideon Ochanda, urged the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to allow President William Ruto the political space to engage and unite all communities across the country. They argued that recent demands for a strict 50-50 power-sharing arrangement with the administration are impractical and risk alienating other regions.
The issue has sparked concerns about the impact on the local fishing community and the region's economy. The government's efforts to address the issue and support the blue economy are seen as crucial to the region's development. The construction of modern fish landing sites and the supply of new fishing gear are expected to boost the fishing industry.
The engagement between Kenya and Uganda is ongoing, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs working to resolve the diplomatic dispute. The government's efforts to strengthen the KCGS and support the blue economy are expected to have a positive impact on the region. A permanent solution to the harassment of local fishermen is yet to be achieved, but the government's efforts are seen as a step in the right direction.
Key points
- The Kenyan government is engaging with Uganda to establish a permanent solution to the harassment of local fishermen on Lake Victoria.
- The government is working to bolster the operational capacity of the Kenya Coast Guard Service to enhance lake patrols and deter unauthorized foreign incursions.
- The government is investing in the blue economy, including the construction of modern fish landing sites and the supply of new fishing gear.
