By Alfred Opio
PALLISA — Fish farmers in Olok Sub-county, Pallisa District, have raised alarm over increasing theft targeting fish ponds, warning that the insecurity is threatening investments and discouraging farmers from continuing with fish farming projects.
The concerns were raised during a monitoring visit by Pallisa Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Majid Dhikusooka to various fish farming projects in the area.
Farmers told the RDC that criminals have started targeting mature fish in ponds despite the heavy investments made in constructing and stocking the ponds.
One of the affected farmers, Mathilinus Ajiyete, who owns three large fish ponds, said he now lives in fear after receiving threats from suspected thieves.
“I have invested a lot of money in this project, and it would be very painful if thieves steal my fish when they mature,” Ajiyete said.
Another farmer, Jackson Ojelel, revealed that his ponds have already been raided twice by unknown people.
“This project is profitable and can transform lives, but thieves are discouraging us by stealing fish. We need serious security support,” Ojelel said.
The farmers appealed to security agencies and district leaders to intervene before the situation worsens and forces many people to abandon fish farming.
Responding to the complaints, RDC Majid Dhikusooka assured farmers that government would take steps to restore security in the area.
“We shall organize security meetings involving local leaders, security personnel, and community members to find lasting solutions,” Dhikusooka said.
He encouraged farmers not to lose hope, emphasizing that fish farming remains one of the government-supported income-generating activities aimed at fighting poverty.
“I want farmers to continue with their projects because these security concerns will be addressed,” he added.
Dhikusooka also urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious individuals believed to be targeting fish ponds.
Meanwhile, Apapa Parish LC2 Chairperson Robert Awoloi encouraged residents to embrace fish farming despite the current challenges.
Awoloi argued that fish farming is more profitable and less labor-intensive compared to traditional rice growing.
“Fish farming is the shortest route to wealth compared to rice farming, which requires a lot of labor yet brings little profit,” he said.
He also revealed that government wealth creation programs are ready to support people venturing into fish farming and other modern agricultural enterprises.
Local leaders now hope that improved security and continued government support will encourage more residents to invest in fish farming, which is increasingly becoming a major source of household income in Pallisa District.
