By Patrick Omoake
Lake Edward, one of East Africa’s most important freshwater fisheries, located in the Albertine Rift, on the border between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda, is facing mounting pressure from overfishing, raising concerns about declining fish stocks, food security, biodiversity conservation, and the livelihoods of thousands of people who depend on the lake.
Communities along the lake’s shores rely heavily on fishing as their primary source of income and protein. However, increasing fishing pressure and the use of illegal fishing methods are placing the ecosystem under significant strain.
According to Christian Amani from Uganda, there has been a sharp decline in fish production over the past decade. Average catches per fishing vessel reportedly dropped from about 200 kilograms per day in 2010 to approximately 33 kilograms per day in 2026, while fish stock depletion has continued to worsen over the same period.
The decline has reduced household incomes for fishing communities and heightened concerns about the long-term sustainability of the lake’s fisheries.
Poverty Driving Illegal Fishing
Conservation experts say economic hardship has contributed to the increasing use of illegal fishing practices, including undersized fishing nets and, in some reported cases, destructive methods such as dynamite fishing.
A local fisherman, Kambale Peluku, said many fishers feel they have few alternatives.
“We know it’s wrong, but what choice do we have? The fish stocks are dwindling, and we need to feed our families.”
Environmental stakeholders argue that without alternative sources of income, enforcement measures alone may not be sufficient to curb illegal fishing activities.
Environmental and Economic Impact
Experts have often warned that continued overexploitation of any habitant could have far-reaching consequences.
Beyond reducing fish populations, overfishing threatens biodiversity by increasing pressure on vulnerable species and disrupting the lake’s ecological balance.
Communities that rely on fish as a major source of dietary protein also face growing food security challenges.
The fishing industry has also experienced economic losses as declining catches reduce income for fishermen, traders, and businesses that depend on the sector.
Authorities Intensify Conservation Efforts
The Congolese Institute for Nature Conservation (ICCN) says it has strengthened surveillance on the lake, improved coordination among government agencies, and intensified public awareness campaigns to promote sustainable fishing practices.
A senior ICCN official, Gabriel Roger Kitengie Matshimba, said the agency remains committed to protecting the lake’s resources while working with local communities to develop long-term solutions.
“We’re committed to preserving this vital resource for future generations. We want to work with local communities to find sustainable solutions to the challenges facing Lake Edward.”
The Way Forward
According to environmental research, reversing the decline of the lake will require coordinated action from governments, conservation organisations, fishing communities, and development partners.
Among the measures frequently recommended are stricter enforcement of fisheries regulations, promotion of sustainable fishing practices, creation of alternative livelihood opportunities for fishing communities, and increased public education on conservation.
They say balancing environmental protection with the economic needs of local communities will be essential to ensuring that Lake Edward remains a sustainable source of food and income for future generations.