Food scarcity has forced locals in the surrounding districts of Lake Kyoga to engage in illegal fishing despite the ban imposed by government in 2019.
As a result, some residents have died in the process. Since January 2020, more than 10 people have lost their lives in Lake Kyoga, according to Mr Denis Rembo Ongu, the Namasale Parish chairperson.
The latest victims are Brian Ogwok, 22, and Tom Awongo, who died on April 5 while using an improvised wooden boat to catch fish. The boat reportedly capsized.
The youngsters are residents of Acaba Village, Amai Parish, Aputi Sub-county in Amolatar District.
Amolatar, with a population of more than 140,000 people, is currently grappling with famine caused by the prolonged dry spell.
Because of hunger, residents are now being tempted to go and catch the fish, Mr Ongu said on Wednesday.