The Ugandan government has reopened four of the 12 landing sites in Masaka District that officials shut down nine years ago—a move that has drawn both support and sharp political criticism. The sites—Makonzi, Mitondo, Nakitokolo, and Kisuku, all in Bukakkata Sub-county—resumed operations this week after NRM leaders lobbied for their return, including Bukoto East MP Sarah Kityo and Masaka District Woman MP aspirant Joan Nalule.
At a ceremony held Thursday at Makonzi, Fisheries Protection Unit (FPU) Commandant Lt Col Mercy Tukahirwa announced the reopening—but with strict conditions. “You may operate again, but only if you strictly follow fishing regulations,” she warned. Moreover, she ordered crews to remove roadblocks on access roads immediately to ensure smooth movement. She also stressed that any return to illegal fishing would trigger another shutdown.
However, leaders from the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) dismissed the move as politically motivated. They argue it aims to win fishermen’s votes ahead of the 2026 General Election. “Our people have suffered under the FPU,” said Masaka District Speaker Francis Kimuli. “Some died, others were injured after officials accused them of illegal fishing.”
He added, “They reopened the sites now just to hoodwink fishermen into voting for Museveni and NRM. The same oppression will return after the polls.” Kimuli noted that district leaders had repeatedly asked the government to reopen the sites due to falling revenue—but officials ignored their appeals until recently. He pointed out that attendees at the ceremony wore NRM T-shirts and that the ruling party’s parliamentary flagbearer attended, reinforcing suspicions of electioneering.
In response, Lt Col Tukahirwa denied any political role. “I am not campaigning. I am only educating communities on fishing laws,” she said. “The President assigned me to stop illegal fishing—and that is exactly what I am doing.”
Meanwhile, Masaka District Finance Committee Chair Peter Ssenkungu welcomed the decision. He explained that the fisheries sub-sector once powered the district budget—but nearly collapsed after the 2017 closures. “We’ve lost substantial revenue,” he said. “District leaders have long recommended reopening these sites.”
He urged fishermen to follow regulations, improve sanitation, and operate responsibly. “This is a chance to restore livelihoods and boost household incomes,” Ssenkungu added.
Historically, the government shut over 20 landing sites across Lake Victoria districts in 2017 to fight illegal fishing. Of Masaka’s original 18 sites, only six—including the newly reopened four—are now active. The rest, such as Kafuga, Kisamba, Kyondo, and Kyasa, remain closed.
Since then, fishing communities have struggled. Many lost their only income source. Surrounding businesses—bars, shops, restaurants, and fuel stations—also shut down, deepening hardship in lakeside areas.
As the Masaka landing sites reopening unfolds, the debate centers on intent: Is this genuine reform or an electoral strategy? Officials emphasize compliance and conservation, while critics demand consistency. Ultimately, fishermen hope the sites stay open—not just until 2026, but for good.
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