Mass fish deaths in L. Kwania alarm fishermen, trigger health fears

KWANIA, March 24, 2026 — Fishermen across multiple landing sites on Lake Kwania have raised alarm over a surge in fish deaths, particularly affecting Nile perch, in a development that is threatening livelihoods and raising public health concerns.

The lake, which spans the districts of Kwania, Lira, Apac, and Amolatar, has reportedly seen more than 5,000 dead fish floating daily across at least 11 landing sites in Kwania district, according to a report obtained by this publication.

Preliminary findings attribute the deaths to low oxygen levels in the water, likely caused by recent storms, flooding and nutrient overload, which can suffocate fish. However, some fishermen suspect foul play.

Calvine Amute, a fisherman at Gweng landing site in Chawente Subcounty, said the scale of the deaths points to possible poisoning.

“The cause is not yet clear, but I suspect poisoning because the rate at which fish are dying is too high. This has greatly affected our business,” he said.

The situation has left traders struggling to stay afloat. George Otim, a fishmonger dealing in fresh fish, said the losses have made it difficult to service a bank loan invested in the business, and called for urgent intervention by district authorities.

Moses Ongu Okello, LCIII Chairperson of Chawente Subcounty, confirmed receiving reports of the incident.

“I have received the complaint and a comprehensive report has been prepared and forwarded to the district fisheries department for further action,” he said in a telephone interview.

Kwania District Fisheries Officer Ronald Otim said investigations are under way.

“We received the report and are currently conducting surveys across 11 landing sites in Ayabi Subcounty, Nambieso, Chawente and Ayabi Town Council to establish the root cause. Thereafter, we shall sensitise the fishing communities on how to protect the lake,” he said.

He also warned traders against selling dead fish to the public.

“If the fish are dying due to poisonous substances in the water, it is not advisable to sell them. Fishmongers must not risk public health, even as we work to establish the exact cause,” he added.

Fishing on Lake Kwania remains a key economic activity, with Nile perch and Nile tilapia as the main species. However, the sector has faced mounting challenges, including overfishing, enforcement operations against illegal gear by the Fisheries Protection Unit of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, and the rising cost of compliant equipment.

In response, the government has introduced stricter regulations and, by late 2025, supported the formation of fishermen’s cooperatives with funding aimed at stabilising the industry.

https://thecooperator.news/govt-to-inject-shs-30bln-into-local-fishing-communities/

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