Bane in Mukene ban is boon for Nile Perch fishing

Authorities in Mukono District, in collaboration with the Fish Protection Unit of the UPDF, have imposed a ban on silver fish fishing at the Katosi landing site, a move that has sparked optimism among Nile Perch fishermen and other stakeholders.

The ban, now in its second month, has already shown promising results.

Andrew Mugarura, a local fisherman, expressed gratitude for the ban, noting that it has led to a significant increase in the weight of the Nile Perch catch, translating to higher yields for fishermen.

"The fishing ban on silver fish has resulted in the increase in the weight of the Nile Perch, giving us more kilos," Mugarura said.

Concerns over the decline in the size and weight of the Nile Perch prompted the ban, with fishermen attributing the decline to the excessive fishing of silver fish in the area.

"The nets used for silver fish were affecting the maturity and numbers of the Nile Perch, leading to significant losses," Mugarura added.

Despite the current slowdown in fishing activities at the site, fishermen remain optimistic about the ban's long-term benefits.

With the ban set to last another month, stakeholders are hopeful for a resurgence in the Nile Perch population and improved fishing conditions.