Authorities battle rising cases of illegal fishing in Agago wetlands

31 October 2025, 4:24 PM

By Freeman Canogura

The ongoing rainy season has led to a sharp rise in fish stocks across Agago River and surrounding wetlands, but district authorities are warning that the boom has come with a dangerous surge in illegal fishing practices.

According to district officials, the heavy rains have filled wetlands, streams, and even roadside channels, creating temporary fishing spots that have attracted hundreds of people, including children. However, many of these new fishers are using banned methods such as poison, mosquito nets, and sharp spears, threatening aquatic life and endangering human health.

Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Kidega Nok Nabinson, said his team has observed an increase in unregulated fishing along Agago River, especially in the centres of Kiteny, Ladere, and Adilang. He noted that while water bodies have expanded and fish populations multiplied, the sustainability of the ecosystem is now at risk due to irresponsible fishing.

Kidega Nok also condemned the use of mosquito nets and chemical substances, describing the acts as illegal and dangerous. He said some people have turned school-going children into part-time fishers, particularly during weekdays, which disrupts education and violates child labor laws. The RDC stressed that law enforcement teams will intensify patrols along flooded riverbanks and trading centers to curb the practice.

Charles Obita, a long-time fisherman, admitted that some people use pesticides to catch fish quickly but said most of them are now aware of the dangers. Obita added that while the rains have made fishing easier and more profitable, many untrained individuals have joined the trade without understanding the rules. He observed that the water levels have risen to the point where people even fish in flooded roads and compounds, creating confusion and conflict among residents.

Dr. Samantha Angeyo, a health worker at Patongo Health Centre IV, noted that chemical residues in fish could cause serious health issues if consumed. She appealed to local authorities to intensify surveillance and community education to stop the practice.

RDC Kidega Nok confirmed that the district will deploy enforcement officers to monitor riverbanks and confiscate illegal fishing gear. He said the district is also working with local leaders to introduce fish cage farming as an alternative income source for fishing communities.