By Nasser Kayanja

WAKISO — State Minister for Fisheries Robert Migadde Ndugwa has summoned Wakiso District security officials to respond to allegations of corruption and extortion of money from fishermen.

The officials, led by the Wakiso Resident District Commissioner (RDC), were questioned during a fisheries stakeholders’ meeting held at the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) headquarters in Entebbe.

The meeting followed complaints received by the minister over the management of the fisheries sector in Wakiso, including allegations that some fishermen were being asked to pay money during the selection of applicants for fishing licences.

There were also concerns over the establishment of landing sites without following the required procedures.

“The reason why we summoned the district security team was specifically to listen to them on allegations of corruption and extortion of money from fishers in Wakiso District,” Migadde said.

The minister said the ministry would also organise a community meeting, or baraza, at one of the landing sites in Wakiso to directly hear concerns from fishermen and other stakeholders.

“We shall find a day and visit one of the landing sites in Wakiso for a baraza and listen to the people, especially the fishermen,” he said.

Among the officials asked to respond to the allegations were the Wakiso District RDC and the chairperson of Katabi Town Council, among others.

Migadde said the engagement was intended to establish the facts surrounding the complaints and improve accountability in the management of the fisheries sector.

The minister also urged fisheries stakeholders to report cases of corruption and extortion through the appropriate authorities so that they can be investigated and addressed.