The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Amolatar District, Francis Okello, has launched the operations of newly established Landing Site and Sub-county Fisheries Management Committees in a move aimed at strengthening the fight against illegal fishing and improving local revenue collection.
The committees were inaugurated on Tuesday July 21, 2026 at the Amolatar District Education Hall and are expected to oversee fisheries management, enforce regulations, and promote sustainable use of the district’s water resources.
Speaking during the launch, Okello warned against destructive fishing practices, saying they continue to deplete fish stocks and threaten livelihoods. He urged committee members and fishers to strictly comply with government fisheries regulations to restore fish populations, improve household incomes, and enhance food security.
He further appealed to fishing communities to invest income earned from the lake in educating their children, improving sanitation and health standards at landing sites, and enhancing their overall well-being.
District Fisheries Officer Anthony Otunga said eliminating illegal fishing is critical if communities are to realize the economic benefits of the fisheries sector.
District Chairperson Moris Ogwal directed the Fisheries Department to simplify and customize fisheries regulations to make them easier for fishing communities to understand and implement.
He also proposed intensive radio sensitization campaigns to ensure fishers are fully informed about the law and do not violate regulations out of ignorance.
Ogwal called on leaders at the landing sites to support the mobilization of local revenue, noting that increased revenue collection is essential for the district’s development.
He added that the fisheries laws will be translated into the local language to improve understanding and compliance among fishing communities.
The district chairperson further urged the newly elected committee members to work together and coordinate effectively for the benefit of all residents.
Representing the Chief Administrative Officer, Principal Assistant Secretary Susan Ayura Acio challenged the committee members to lead by example and leave behind a positive legacy through accountable leadership and effective revenue mobilization.
District Community Development Officer Vincent Otile said strict enforcement of fisheries regulations is necessary to protect both the country’s natural resources and the livelihoods that depend on them.
The newly launched Landing Site and Sub-county Fisheries Management Committees are expected to immediately begin monitoring fishing activities, enforcing fisheries regulations, and managing operations at landing sites across Amolatar District.