Lake Victoria Windy Conditions Spike Fish Prices

Strong winds and large waves on Lake Victoria are causing significant disruptions to fishing activities, driving up the retail prices of fish in surrounding areas.

This adverse weather has led to a notable reduction in fish catches, creating challenges for fishermen and local markets alike.

A survey in municipal markets revealed that many fish markets and restaurants are struggling to stock sufficient fish. The winds, blowing intermittently and creating hazardous conditions on the lake, have forced many fishermen to temporarily halt their operations, further straining fish availability.

Local fisherman at the Nyamkazi fish selling point reported that prices have surged in recent days due to the diminished catches. “The winds are too strong, making it unsafe to sail, and this has caused a significant drop in the amount of fish we can catch,” one fisherman noted.

The Uganda National Meteorological Authority (UNMA) has issued warnings about these severe conditions, highlighting that the winds could reach speeds of over 25 knots, with waves exceeding two meters in height. These conditions not only impede fishing but also pose risks to boats and lives, prompting many fishermen to stay ashore until the weather stabilizes

This situation is exacerbating the already high demand for fish in the region, with local processors and traders facing difficulties in maintaining supply chains. The adverse weather is also affecting post-harvest activities. Traditional drying methods, often conducted on open surfaces, are highly vulnerable to rain and wind, leading to significant post-harvest losses and lower quality products

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Experts suggest that adopting new technologies, such as greenhouse drying, could mitigate some of these issues. Greenhouse drying protects the fish from rain and contamination, preserving its quality and extending its shelf life. This method could be particularly beneficial during the rainy season, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality fish to meet market demands

As the winds continue to batter the region, residents and businesses are bracing for sustained high fish prices and potential shortages. The fishing communities are hoping for a quick return to calmer conditions, enabling them to resume their crucial role in the local economy.

For now, consumers are urged to be understanding of the price increases and the challenges faced by fishermen during this period of severe weather around Lake Victoria