BY: IKIRIZA ZEPHANIA ATWOOKI
Buliisa
The Uganda Fisheries and Fish Conservation Association (UFFCA) has embarked on a campaign to mobilize fishers across the country to form associations aimed at benefiting from the funds President Yoweri Museveni pledged to support fishers’ SACCOs.
Speaking to reporters this morning, UFFCA Executive Director Mr. Seremoth Kamuturaki said the ongoing exercise has so far led to the formation of 15 associations of different categories on Lake Albert. Each association will comprise at least 50 members, with a target of forming over 40 associations in total.
Cue in: Kamuturaki on Associations
Kamuturaki explained that the main goal is to unite these smaller associations under a bigger SACCO, through which government and development partners can channel financial support to enhance the livelihoods of fishers. He noted that government’s plan is to empower fishing communities to sustainably manage Uganda’s lakes, with the Fisheries Protection Unit (FPU) offering support only where necessary.
Cue in: Kamuturaki on SACCO…
Kamuturaki further revealed that during a meeting with fishing community leaders in Entebbe earlier this year, President Museveni pledged to inject funds into fishers’ SACCOs and ensure that the management of the country’s lakes is entrusted to local residents.
He called upon all members of the fishing community to embrace the formation of associations in order to benefit from these initiatives, commending President Museveni for his visionary leadership and for being the first Ugandan president to prioritize the welfare of fishers since independence.
Kamuturaki emphasized on Good fishing methods as the only they can sustain the fishing devilment sector
Cue in: Kamuturaki on good methods of fishing
