National Resistance Movement (NRM) presidential candidate Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has proposed the introduction of designated “fishing holidays” on major lakes as part of efforts to conserve Uganda’s fisheries sector. Speaking at an NRM campaign rally at Namayingo Primary School playgrounds, Museveni said several countries including Democratic Republic of Congo already pause fishing at certain times to allow fish stocks to regenerate, and he encouraged local communities to consider adopting the practice.

Museveni reaffirmed his commitment to operationalize a dedicated support fund for fishing communities and promised a comprehensive transformation of the fisheries sector. This, he said, will include large-scale fish-farming initiatives aimed at boosting household income and national productivity.

Urges Proper Fishing Practices and Wealth Creation

General Museveni emphasized the need for responsible fishing methods to protect Lake Victoria and safeguard future livelihoods. He urged locals to embrace a range of wealth-creation interventions, including the government-promoted four-acre model, which integrates enterprises such as coffee farming, poultry, piggery, fruit growing, and fishing.
He highlighted success stories of individuals who began with small pieces of land but became millionaires through commercial agriculture under the four-acre model—examples he encouraged Namayingo residents to emulate.

General Museveni showcased achievements from government empowerment initiatives such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga, the Youth Livelihood Programme, and the Women Empowerment Fund. He said these programs provide the financial and training support necessary for communities to uplift themselves.

He also outlined the NRM’s broader job-creation strategy, centered on commercial agriculture, manufacturing, and the services sector.

Promises Infrastructure Expansion in Namayingo

Museveni unveiled several development plans for Namayingo District, including upgrades to road networks, construction of additional schools, and improvements to health facilities. He pledged to increase clean-water coverage beyond the current 72 percent through a massive water-pumping system that will draw water from Lake Victoria and distribute it by gravity to surrounding villages.