A dispute over fishing grounds in Homa Bay County has turned tragic after a confrontation between rival fishing groups left two fishermen dead and three others seriously injured.
The clash happened at around 4am at Ndhuru Beach in Lambwe Ward, Suba North Sub-County, during a confrontation involving fishermen from Ndhuru and Koginga beaches.
Highlights
- Two fishermen were killed during the early-morning confrontation.
- Three others suffered serious injuries and were taken to hospital.
- The clash involved fishing groups from Ndhuru and Koginga beaches.
- The dispute was linked to fishing grounds and alleged use of illegal gear.
- Beach officials have urged fishermen to follow regulations and protect breeding areas.
Main Story
Early-Morning Confrontation Turns Fatal
The deadly incident occurred when fishermen from Ndhuru Beach were carrying out a patrol around Lake Victoria.
Lambwe East Location Chief Benard Onditi Ouma said the team was monitoring fish breeding areas amid concerns over suspected illegal fishing activities.
According to the chief, fishermen from Koginga Beach were allegedly found in the protected area while using prohibited fishing equipment.
Patrol Boat Develops Mechanical Problem
Tensions reportedly escalated after the Ndhuru patrol boat experienced a mechanical problem, leaving the fishermen stranded on the lake.
Ouma said the situation was then exploited by fishermen from Koginga, who were operating eight boats at the time.
The group allegedly attacked the stranded patrol team with stones, resulting in a violent confrontation.
Two fishermen died at the scene, while three others sustained serious injuries.
Injured Fishermen Taken to Hospital
The injured victims were rescued and transported to Homa Bay County Referral Hospital, where they are receiving medical attention.
The incident has renewed concerns over tensions between fishing communities operating along Lake Victoria, particularly where competition over fishing grounds and disagreements over fishing practices arise.
Officials Call for Peace and Sustainable Fishing
Homa Bay County Beach Management Unit Chairperson Edward Oremo condemned the violence and warned fishermen against activities that could trigger further confrontations.
Oremo urged fishing communities to avoid illegal gear and unauthorised patrols, saying such practices can create tensions and, in some cases, lead to loss of life.
He also called for greater adherence to fishing regulations and sustainable practices to protect Lake Victoria’s fish breeding areas.
According to Oremo, continued use of prohibited fishing equipment could damage breeding grounds and contribute to declining fish stocks, threatening the livelihoods of communities that depend on the lake.
When disputes over resources turn violent, the cost is often paid by the very communities that depend on those resources to survive.
