Busia County MP, Hon. Catherine Omanyo has sought a Statement on harassment of Kenyan fishermen on Lake Victoria.

Hon. Omanyo highlighted the plight of fishermen in Budalangi, who have faced frequent arrests, detention, and extortion by Ugandan security forces.

"Lake Victoria is a shared resource that supports millions of livelihoods, yet our fishermen are being treated as criminals in their own waters. The Ugandan authorities' actions violate the rights and dignity of our people and this must stop," she said.

According to Hon. Catherine Omanyo, Ugandan police officers often confiscate boats and equipment from Kenyan fishermen, demanding hefty bribes for their release. She cited reports of bribes as high as Kshs.30, 000 per person, adding that in some instances, violence has been used, resulting in injuries and even deaths. 

She added that Kenyan fishermen are entitled to find in the lake as per the agreements and protocols signed by the East African Community’s member states. These agreements and protocols include the Lake Victoria Fisheries Organization (LVFO), established in 1994 to promote sustainable management and development of fisheries’ resources in the lake. The LVFO also aims to foster cooperation and coordination among the riparian states on issues such as fishing licenses, regulations, enforcement, monitoring and research.

Hon. Catherine Omanyo, sought details on the steps being taken by the Ministry to engage the Government of Uganda to ensure that Kenyan fishermen in Lake Victoria are treated with respect and dignity, and that any disputes over fishing rights are resolved amicably and the measures put in place to enhance security and surveillance in the lake, and to collaborate with Ugandan authorities to prevent and punish any acts of harassment or extortion against Kenyan fishermen. 

Other Members of Parliament representing constituencies bordering the lake, called for immediate government intervention to resolve the matter

   Budalangi MP, Hon. Raphael Wanjala supported Hon. Omanyo  by sharing a recent incident where eight fishermen from his constituency were arrested by Ugandan police on July 11, 2024 stating that the arrests were abductions.

"These arrests are nothing short of abductions. The Ugandans cross into Kenyan waters and forcefully take our people, demanding money for their release. This lawlessness must end," Hon. Wanjala said.

Funyula MP, Hon. (Dr) Ojiambo Oundo added his voice to the debate, describing the situation as a menace that needs urgent attention.