THE government has for the first time launched the use of drones to enhance the management of fishing activities in Lake Victoria.

Speaking at the launch event in Mwanza over the weekend, Deputy Minister for Livestock and Fisheries, Alexander Mnyeti, stated that the government has decided to adopt modern measures to combat illegal fishing by leveraging advanced technology.

Mnyeti further explained that in this initial phase, the ministry has allocated 259m/- for the purchase of drones, training operators, establishing control stations, registration, and setting up a system to store and analyse data gathered by the drones.

"The drones are designed to strengthen the management of fishing activities in Lake Victoria. They can travel at speeds of up to 108 kilometres per hour, capture images from a distance of 350 metres, fly 120 metres above sea level, cover a distance of 400 kilometres, and remain airborne for up to two hours," said Mnyeti.

He went on to explain that the use of drones would not be limited to Lake Victoria alone but will also extend to Lake Tanganyika, Lake Nyasa, and coastal areas along the Indian Ocean, ensuring that every corner of the country benefits from modern technology in resource management.

He highlighted that the drones are capable of providing real-time data, which will help reduce illegal fishing activities, cut operational costs for lake patrols, and be used in search and rescue operations.

Mnyeti clarified that the drones are modern, unmanned aerial devices designed to enhance patrols and resource management in the fisheries sector, and they remain the property of the government.

The ministry will continue to collaborate with security forces and other government bodies to strengthen security on Lake Victoria.

Dr Edwin Mhede, the Deputy Permanent Secretary responsible for fisheries, noted that the introduction of drones aligns with global demands for environmentally friendly technologies.

He added that in the fight against illegal fishing, the government had previously relied on diesel-powered boats and vehicles, which contributed significantly to carbon emissions.

 However, with the introduction of drones, the devices will focus on specific areas where illegal fishing activities are suspected, thus reducing the need for boats and vehicles to track down illegal fishermen.

Dr Mhede assured that he would ensure the effective implementation of these directives, including addressing concerns regarding fisheries officers suspected of being involved in illegal fishing activities.

Nyamagana District Commissioner, Amina Makilagi, stated that the region relies heavily on the fishing sector to boost its economy. She added that the launch of drones to help control the depletion of fishing resources will aid in identifying criminals and curbing illegal fishing.

She also noted that the region has been ensuring regular patrols to guarantee the safety of all areas of Lake Victoria in Mwanza against illegal fishing.