Lake Victoria: Dwindling fish population worry locals

According to the residents, these illegal fishing activities have been carried out over the years on the shores of Muhuru-bay, the lakeside areas of Kadem, Aneko and Sori – within Migori County.

Reports indicate that many fishermen have hanged their fishing gear – and resorted to farming activities along the lake to supplement their livelihood.

“There is hardly any fish in the waters these days. Many fishermen spend long hours scouring the lake in search of fish only to come back to the shores empty handed,” said John Otieno, a fisherman in Sori.

“A lot of illegal fishing activities like the use of unregulated fishing nets and even chemicals in some cases has led to a drop in fish population,” added Otieno.

According to the local fishermen, the sharp drop in the catch has seen prices of fish hit the roof.

“I am a fisherman and I live just next to the lake, yet I cannot remember the last time I ate fish (tilapia). It’s shocking that fish has become too expensive to afford. I would rather sell whatever little fish I catch to make more money,” said Otieno.

Although there are dedicated Beach Management Units (BMU) mandated to regulate fishing activities in selected areas around the lake – unscrupulous fishermen have often played cat and mouse with these fisheries officers.

“Some of the illegal fishing activities happen in the dead of the night. It’s not easy to regulate and control,” says Otieno.

These illegal fishing activities have reportedly disturbed important breeding grounds along the shores.

Many fishermen have now joined the jua kali sector as welders and fitters, while others have joined the already flooded boda boda business. 

The fishermen are hopeful that the local and the national government through the Ministry of Fisheries will take necessary steps to restore fish population in Lake Victoria – and root out illegal and harmful fishing activities.