Luanda: Last year, the province of Uge recorded a decrease in the amount of fish caught in several rivers and lakes, due to the lack of artisanal fishing tools and other support for the development of this activity in the region.
According to Angola Press News Agency, in 2024, fishermen in Uge province caught 15,720 tons of fish, compared to the 30,000 and 40,000 tons caught in previous years, the head of the Uge Fisheries Department, Jos© Kupessa, disclosed on Wednesday. He highlighted that fishermen are facing difficulties due to the absence of essential artisanal fishing equipment, such as nets, hooks, buoys, and boats, which are crucial for enhancing their catches.
Kupessa further mentioned that municipal governments have ceased supporting artisanal fishing as part of a poverty reduction program, a move that has significantly contributed to the decline in fish catches. This lack of support has left fishermen without the necessary resources to sustain their livelihoods.
Artisanal fishing in Uge is predominantly conducted in several municipalities, including Ambuila, Bembe, Quimbele, Milunga, Maquela do Zombo, Damba, Sanza-Pombo, Cangola, Songo, Pºri, Negage, and Dange Queitexe. Despite the challenges faced, the province of Uge maintains a total of 47 fishermen’s associations comprising 1,361 members.
