Facing societal norms and harsh conditions, a group of fisherwomen in Nakasongola District, Uganda, are breaking barriers in the male dominated fishing industry to provide for themselves and their families. This is happening on Lake Kyoga where the norms have been put under the feet.
For generations, fishing in the Buganda culture has been considered taboo for women. This belief stems from the idea that women’s menstruation would anger Nalubaale, the female guardian spirit of Lake Victoria. However, on the waters of Lake Kyoga, a group of courageous fisherwomen is defying these traditions out of necessity.
Driven by poverty and hunger, these women venture out onto the lake daily, facing not only societal disapproval but also the dangers of the open water. They often work through the night, battling strong winds, torrential downpours, and the threat of thieves who prey on vulnerable fishers.
The women recount stories of near-death experiences, narrowly escaping capsizing boats and treacherous storms. They navigate these challenges without the safety net of life jackets or the efficiency of boat engines, relying solely on their strength and resilience.
Despite these risks, they persevere. Safiya Kwerunga, the oldest fisherwoman in the group, started fishing at 27 to support her family after her husband became ill. Now, at 56, she reflects on a life of hardship but also independence, noting that she has never gone hungry since she started fishing.
Similarly, Jane Nakiwala turned to fishing at 20 when her husband abandoned her and their children. She speaks of the joy of now being able to provide for her family. She continues to assert that she enjoys the venture and finds peace in it than other ventures.
“This is the job I know most, because I started it after I got abandoned, and I have done it with vigour, it is where my peace is than other jobs” Jane Nakiwala chirped. She more so explained the challenges she faces as a woman who is doing a male dominated job.
While these fisherwomen find a sense of empowerment in their work, their earnings are often meagre. They highlight the disparity in pay between themselves and the boat owners, emphasizing the need for financial support to purchase their own boats and equipment.
Despite the challenges, the fisherwomen of Lake Kyoga represent a shift in societal norms. Their determination to provide for their families, even in the face of adversity, is challenging traditional gender roles and inspiring other women to seek economic independence.
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These women continue to appeal for assistance in acquiring their own boats, nets, life jackets and engines, emphasizing the need for support to ensure their safety and financial security. In this, they hope to expand their industry and feed their families.
