In the past eight years, it seemed rather irrational for a fisherman to celebrate a UPDF Marine officer. It were trials and tribulations, attacks as each struggled to find a living.
Upon the institution of the Fisheries Protection Unit in 2017, several fishermen complained of grievous human rights violations.
An orgiee of the blood letting in 2018 left a trail of despair. Kagoonya landing site in Bufumira Sub County had been burnt down by FPU soldiers in quest for illegal fishers.
A number of fishermen reported deaths, indecent assault and attacks, leading to many fleeing Lake Victoria during that time.
“We could not manage what was happening at the time. If you engage a soldier, you would end up in prison or be beaten. Some of our friends ended up meeting their demise under unscrupulous circumstances,” one of the fishermen recounted.
However, since the appointment of Lt Col. Mercy Addah Tukahirwa as the new FPU Commander, a new lease of life was found. The new commander started off with education and engagement.
Since her appointment on November 26th, 2023, no record of human rights violation has been recorded in Kalangala, Buvuma, Mukono, Masaka, and the neighboring areas.
At the time of her entry into office, fishermen were grappling with trials and tribulations that led to the decrease in the population of the fisherfolk.
However, currently, the number of people engaging in fishing has gradually increased, making the lake easily navigated while engaging in fish hunting.
Everywhere she goes, Col. Tuhakirwa has been praised for taking away the harassment of fishermen and adopting a better way for engagement through the teaching of fishermen of the better fishing practices.
“Of course, the reduction of harassment of fishermen brought about some people who are now hiding in illegal fishing. However, the agency is taking a lead role, ensuring that illegal fishing is completely eroded.” says Ntege Wasajja, the leader of the Balliers Association of Uganda.
Another leader, Babirye Kityo Sarah, while at a public rally in Masaka said; “Let us all thank Afande Mercy (Tukahirwa). She has acted as a mother. Each time we find challenges, we speak to her and the team. All soldiers who tarnished the image of the military are no longer operating in the unit.”
