Speaking in Migori County during the Piny Luo Festival, party leader Oburu Oginga highlighted the growing challenges faced by local fishermen operating in disputed and shared waters.
Oburu expressed deep concern over reports of Kenyan fishermen being arrested and harassed while carrying out their daily activities.
Oburu expressed deep concern over reports of Kenyan fishermen being arrested and harassed while carrying out their daily activities.
“We need to strengthen our diplomatic efforts so that the people of Tanzania stop harassing and arresting our citizens. This lake belongs to all of us, and everyone should be able to enjoy it in peace,” he said.
He emphasized that fishermen risk their lives every day on Lake Victoria, citing cases where some are forcibly detained and taken to Tanzania.
He emphasized that fishermen risk their lives every day on Lake Victoria, citing cases where some are forcibly detained and taken to Tanzania.
“Our people are dying while trying to earn a living. We demand security for our fishermen, and as we welcome you here, Mr. President, we urge you to look into this issue seriously,” Oburu added.
The concerns raised by Oburu were echoed by Siaya Senator James Orengo, who urged the President to intervene in matters related to Ugandan authorities as well.
The concerns raised by Oburu were echoed by Siaya Senator James Orengo, who urged the President to intervene in matters related to Ugandan authorities as well.
He mentioned frequent confiscation of fishing equipment and harassment by Ugandan personnel around Migingo Island, a disputed area that has been a source of tension for years.
“Migingo is close to us, and our fishermen are constantly disturbed. We request intervention to ensure they can operate without fear,” Orengo said.
President Ruto responded to the appeals, assuring the leaders and residents of the government’s commitment to protecting Kenyan fishermen.
President Ruto responded to the appeals, assuring the leaders and residents of the government’s commitment to protecting Kenyan fishermen.
“I have heard the cries of our people. Migingo is part of Kenya. We will use all available diplomatic channels and other means to ensure that our citizens are not harassed and can carry out their activities peacefully,” he stated.
During the same event, the President extended promises to improve local infrastructure. He pledged to develop a new fish landing site for Muhuru Bay residents, similar to the facility at Got Achola in Sori Bay.
During the same event, the President extended promises to improve local infrastructure. He pledged to develop a new fish landing site for Muhuru Bay residents, similar to the facility at Got Achola in Sori Bay.
Additionally, he committed to revamping electricity projects and other infrastructure to support local livelihoods.
ODM leaders also noted that addressing these issues would strengthen Kenya’s regional relations and foster peace among neighboring countries sharing Lake Victoria. They emphasized that continued harassment of fishermen not only endangers lives but also undermines local economies that rely heavily on fishing.
The Piny Luo Festival provided a platform for local leaders and residents to voice their concerns directly to the President.
ODM leaders also noted that addressing these issues would strengthen Kenya’s regional relations and foster peace among neighboring countries sharing Lake Victoria. They emphasized that continued harassment of fishermen not only endangers lives but also undermines local economies that rely heavily on fishing.
The Piny Luo Festival provided a platform for local leaders and residents to voice their concerns directly to the President.
Oburu and Orengo underscored the need for sustained government attention to ensure that fishermen, who are vital to the region’s economy, are protected from harassment and extortion.
The festival also brought attention to broader development issues, including road infrastructure, electricity provision, and market access for local fishers.
The festival also brought attention to broader development issues, including road infrastructure, electricity provision, and market access for local fishers.
President Ruto’s assurances were welcomed by residents, who hope that concrete measures will follow to ensure the safety and prosperity of those operating on Kenya’s waters.