By CHIMPREPORTS
Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) officials have initiated talks to address conflicts over fishing rights among fishermen and ensure the integrity of boundaries on Lake Edward.
The discussions commenced late last week at the UPDF Marines offices in Katwe Kabatoro, Kasese District. The development follows the arrest of several Ugandan fishermen by Congolese officials on the lake.
Fred Enanga, the police spokesperson, reported that the meeting was attended by RDC Kasese, Job Walusimbi, regional and district security officers from the Fourth Mountain Brigade, ISO, LC authorities, immigration officials, and the Mayor of Katwe Kabatoro. On the DRC side, Colonel Charles Ewutaomewonga, the administrative head in Beni, led the delegation.
“The discussions culminated in an agreement beneficial to both nations, resulting in the exchange of fishermen who had been arrested on either side of Lake Edward, along with their fishing boats and gear,” stated Enanga.
Uganda facilitated the return of 14 Congolese fishermen who were apprehended for illegal entry, releasing them alongside 67 boat engines and fuel tanks to the Congolese authorities.
In reciprocation, DRC officials returned four Ugandan fishermen, including Bernard Karunji, Joseph Aturinda, and Banette Byabagambi, along with ten fuel boat tanks, 16 boat engines, and one boat from the Katwe landing site. Efforts are underway to recover five other missing boats.
Enanga emphasized the significance of collaboration in addressing shared challenges, particularly in ensuring the integrity of boundaries on Lake Edward. This partnership aims to mitigate business and transportation risks on both sides of the lake.
Discussion about this post