Ouma has been fishing the unpredictable waters of Lake Kyoga for over 20 years. He knows the currents, the changing winds, and the best fishing spots like the back of his hand. When asked why he ventures out into the deep waters without a lifejacket, his answer is quick and dismissive: "The lake knows me. I am a fisherman, not a child learning to swim."
Ouma's story is not unique. Across the Teso sub-region's fishing communities, years of experience often breed a dangerous sense of invincibility.
The Paradox of Experience
There is a deadly paradox on Lake Kyoga: the more experienced a fisherman is, the more likely they are to take life-threatening risks. Veteran fishermen often rely solely on their traditional knowledge to read the weather and navigate the waters. This confidence leads them to venture further from shore and remain on the lake during treacherous storms, viewing safety equipment as unnecessary burdens for the unskilled.
Cultural Barriers
The resistance to wearing lifejackets is deeply rooted in cultural perceptions. In many fishing communities, wearing a lifejacket is equated with weakness, fear, and a lack of authentic fishing prowess. Experienced fishermen often mock younger peers who choose to wear them, creating an environment of intense peer pressure where prioritizing safety is actively discouraged.
The Data Tells a Different Story
Despite the bravado, the statistics paint a grim reality. Data collected from recent drowning incidents reveals a shocking trend: a significant proportion of fatalities on Lake Kyoga involve seasoned fishermen, not novices. When an unexpected storm hits or a boat capsizes far from shore, decades of experience cannot replace the buoyancy provided by a lifejacket. The lake, it turns out, does not respect experience when tragedy strikes.
SAF-TESO's Approach
To address this critical issue, Shine Africa Foundation – Teso (SAF-TESO) is pioneering a behavioral change communication strategy tailored specifically for veteran fisherfolk.
We understand that simply distributing lifejackets is not enough if the community refuses to wear them. Our approach leverages peer mentorship, identifying respected elders and experienced fishermen who have embraced safety measures to serve as safety champions. By facilitating open community dialogues, we provide a platform to challenge harmful stereotypes and discuss the real risks involved.
Furthermore, SAF-TESO is working closely with local Beach Management Units (BMUs) and fishing cooperatives to integrate mandatory safety regulations into their operational rules, ensuring that safety becomes a standard requirement rather than an optional choice.
Changing Mindsets
Changing deeply ingrained mindsets is a gradual process, but progress is visible. We are beginning to see a shift in attitudes, with more young fishermen confidently wearing lifejackets and some veterans slowly acknowledging their value.
However, the challenge remains substantial. Overcoming the culture of overconfidence requires sustained engagement, continued education, and the relentless promotion of safety as a hallmark of true professionalism on the water. SAF-TESO remains committed to ensuring that experience on Lake Kyoga translates into a long, safe life, not a tragic end.