Fishermen Under Siege Amid Deadly Attacks on Lake Kivu

Fishermen Under Siege Amid Deadly Attacks on Lake Kivu

In a troubling report, 33 Congolese fishermen have been killed and 56 injured on Lake Kivu over the past nine months, allegedly due to attacks by soldiers believed to be from the Rwandan naval forces. These incidents predominantly occur during nighttime fishing, according to local sources.

The alarming statistics were shared by the Synergy of Lake Kivu Fishermen’s Associations during a meeting with provincial authorities, where they urgently called for protection against the ongoing violence. Fisherman Mushagalusa Salomon recounted his harrowing experiences, having survived four attacks. Each time, his fishing nets and boat were stolen. “They come in groups and throw stones at us. We have to jump into the water to escape. If you don’t, they kill you and take everything,” Salomon said.

Lake Kivu is essential for the livelihoods of many families in the region, including those from nearby territories and the city of Bukavu. The fish caught from the lake are a key food source for the local community.

In response to the violence, the General Directorate of Migration has promised to provide two speedboats to enhance security patrols on the lake. Provincial deputy Jackson Kalimba, who is investigating the attacks, emphasized the need for better protection for fishermen. “We are urging both provincial and national authorities to improve security on Lake Kivu,” he stated.

During a public meeting on September 8, South Kivu Governor Jean-Jacques Purusi Sadiki announced plans to install surveillance cameras on the lake to monitor the situation and prevent future attacks. Efforts to reach the Rwandan naval forces for comment have been unsuccessful, amid ongoing tensions between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda.

Source: Africa News