Kampala — FISHING communities at major lakes have formed an association to fight illegal fishing methods and ensure sound fishing practices.

The Association of Fishers and Lake Users of Uganda (AFALU) will be responsible for monitoring and sensitising the public about the dangers of catching premature fish.

"Not so long ago we used to have a lot of fish in our lakes and fish was one of the cheapest sources of protein in Uganda. Currently many people can only afford fish skeletons locally called 'fille'," said James Kisambira, the association's adviser.

Speaking during an operation to destroy illegal fishnets at Katosi Landing Site in Mukono, Kisambira said the association had deployed at all the major lakes to promote efficient and environment-friendly fishing methods.

Kisambira said the association works with the Beach Management Unit (BMU) officers, the Police and fisheries officers.

In Ntenjeru sub-county, Mukono district, the AFALU team recently teamed up with the Lugazi Police, local BMUs and the fisheries officers to impound 10,000 illegal fishing gear and premature fish.

He said the operation's monitoring team had covered Bulebi, Sowe, Kiziru, Kikoko, Kijjuko, Bubazi, Mbale and Bugula landing sites.

State minister for fisheries Fred Mukisa who was the chief guest said the country's fish exports had grown over the last 10 years.

"This remarkable performance has been partly attributed to an increase in export tonnage and the higher prices on the foreign market," he said.

Mukisa said his ministry was taking steps to streamline fisheries management activities and to support and build the capacity of BMUs.