AMOS K
Leaders from Ntungamo District have expressed concern about the ongoing misuse of Lake Nyabihoko, a shared resource considered communal property.
Lake Nyabihoko, located in Ntungamo District, is shared by Kajara and Rushenyi counties. Amanya Ivan Rwanyakibare, the LC3 Chairperson of Rugarama Sub-County, noted that residents of Kajara County, who rely heavily on the lake, have begun mistreating their counterparts from Rugarama in Rushenyi County. These residents from Rushenyi also depend on the lake for fishing, boat riding, and other livelihood activities.
Rwanyakibare explained that some individuals from Kajara County attack and chase away those using fishing baskets to catch fish, including mudfish, along the lake’s shores. He warned that such actions, even in the communal areas of the lake, risk sparking serious conflicts that could potentially lead to loss of life.
He urged all users of the lake to stop encroaching on the communal areas and to respect the rights of others to utilize this resource. He called on authorities and stakeholders to address the issue before it escalates into severe conflict.
Ben Barekye, a resident affected by the conflict, told our reporter that they had been attacked and their fishing baskets destroyed. He recounted instances where some individuals were beaten, with one person recently sustaining serious injuries from a panga attack. Barekye expressed frustration with the lack of intervention by the police and government officials, adding that they are now considering a confrontation to resolve the issue.
When contacted, Benon Twinamatsiko, the chairperson of all fishermen at Lake Nyabihoko, denied knowledge of the conflict. He stated that the lake is under the management of designated authorities responsible for overseeing fishing activities.
This issue highlights the need for immediate action to ensure peaceful coexistence and equitable use of Lake Nyabihoko’s resources.
