Kasenyi, April 21st, 2026 (CPA).- More than two tons of prohibited fishing equipment were incinerated in Kasenyi, about 55 km from Bunia, capital of Ituri province in the northeast of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, on the shores of Lake Albert, CPA learned on Tuesday from an administrative source.
“These materials include monofilament nets, mosquito nets as well as hooks. This operation aims to tackle the most harmful fishing practices for the lake’s ecosystem and fishery resources,” said Jean-Baptiste Uzele, head of the surveillance unit in Kasenyi. He specified that the activity was carried out in strict compliance with the law, with the support of politico-administrative authorities. “Fishermen are beginning to witness the positive effects of the regulations, now visible on the ground,” he added, commending the involvement of customary chiefs from Bahama Nord, Bahama Banywagi chiefdoms and the Bahema d’Irumu sector. For his part, Katalo Takumara, head of the Bahema Sud sector, also welcomed the initiative aimed at discouraging illegal practices on the lake. “The impression is positive. We thank the involvement of the judiciary, particularly the prosecutor, as well as customary authorities and security services for their commitment to this fight,” he said. Addressing fishermen, Mr. Katalo called for the abandonment of prohibited methods. “We urge fishermen to stop using banned nets. If these practices persist, fishery resources risk disappearing in the coming years,” he warned.
Finally, the sector chief stressed the need to protect spawning areas in order to ensure fish reproduction and guarantee the sustainability of Lake Albert’s resources.