Kenyan fishermen decry harassment by Ugandan Officers at Migingo Island

Kenyan fishermen have raised alarm over continued harassment by Ugandan security officers, who they accuse of extorting money from them whenever they access fishing waters around Migingo Island in Lake Victoria.

Speaking to Radio Ramogi, fishermen led by Sori Beach Management Unit Chairperson Hesbon Ouko said they are still unable to freely conduct their fishing activities due to frequent patrols and intimidation by Ugandan officers.

Ouko claimed that every Kenyan fishing boat entering waters near Migingo Island is forced to pay Ksh. 2,000 to Ugandan patrol officers.

Those who fail to comply reportedly have their boats impounded until the money is paid.

He noted that despite several attempts to engage Ugandan authorities to resolve the issue, the officers have remained unyielding, a situation that has continued to cause hardship among Kenyan fishermen.

Ouko has now appealed to the Kenyan government to urgently intervene and put an end to the harassment on the lake.

He further alleged that some Kenyan security officers are complicit in the extortion, adding that fishermen have reported the matter to police and remain hopeful that action will be taken to address the situation.