District leaders in Masaka District have commenced an investigation into the alleged secret operation of landing sites that had been closed for seven years, according to findings from a local news paper. Out of the 13 landing sites in Masaka District, nine were shut down in 2017 due to illegal operations. These sites include Kafuga, Kyondo, Kisonzi, Mutemante, Kyasa, Mumpu, Senero, Gwamba, and Nakiga.
District authorities have revealed that some fishermen at these landing sites continue to engage in clandestine fishing activities, especially during nighttime. Mr. Peter Ssenkungu, the chairperson of the district finance committee, stated that they are currently investigating these reports of illegal landing sites.
The closure of these landing sites has had a significant impact on the district’s revenue. It has resulted in an annual loss of over Shs200 million, accumulating to a total loss of Shs1.4 billion in the last seven years. This loss of revenue has prompted complaints from the local business community, including bars, shops, restaurants, and fuel stations that previously operated on these landing sites.
Additionally, there are allegations that some unscrupulous individuals are collecting money from unsuspecting fishermen in the name of revenue but are not remitting it to the district treasury. Mr. Ssenkungu emphasized that revenue collected from landing sites should be paid to recognized tenderers, who then transfer it to the respective sub-counties.
The district is currently considering reopening some landing sites that have met the required standards, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries. These standards include fencing off the site, having a registered number of fishermen (not less than 30), possessing standard boats, and using recognized fishing gear, among other criteria. Landing sites that have met these standards include Kyasa, Gwamba, Nakiga, and Senero.
Mr. Fredrick Egesa, the Masaka District fisheries officer, stated that they have successfully educated fishermen about the necessary operational standards. He anticipates that these landing sites will soon be reopened, which will also boost local revenue.
Mr. Tom Bukenya, the director for fisheries resources in the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries, mentioned that the district leadership sought permission to officially reopen some of the previously closed landing sites. The Ministry provided them with the required standards but has not received updates on the progress of implementation.
