By Nathan Eyagu 

SERERE DISTRICT - The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Vice Chairman for Eastern Region, Hon. David Calvin Echodu, has appealed to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to review Uganda’s fishing policies and rehabilitate the National Semi-Arid Resources Research Institute (NASARI) in Serere District, in a move aimed at boosting the livelihoods and economic productivity of communities across the Teso Sub-region.

Hon. Echodu made the appeal on Monday while welcoming President Museveni to a well-attended campaign rally held at Serere District Headquarters. The event drew thousands of NRM supporters who filled the grounds with party colors, cheers, and chants as the President continued his mobilization tour across the Teso Sub-region.

In his address, Echodu expressed deep concern over the current fishing regulations, saying they have left many local fishermen struggling to make ends meet due to high compliance costs and restrictive enforcement measures.

“Your Excellency, the issue of fishing policies has pressed the people of Serere, aware that a majority of them survive through fishing,” Echodu said to loud applause from the crowd. “Many of the fishermen can’t afford the big boats and standard fishing nets required by the authorities. I therefore appeal to government to support them in acquiring the necessary equipment and review the policies to make them more inclusive and practical.”

Echodu emphasized that while the government’s crackdown on illegal fishing is necessary to protect aquatic resources, it should be implemented in a way that balances conservation with the livelihoods of small-scale fishermen. He proposed government-supported interventions such as credit schemes, cooperative societies, and subsidized fishing equipment to help fishermen operate sustainably.

Turning to agriculture, the NRM Vice Chairman called for the revitalization of the National Semi-Arid Resources Research Institute (NASARI), describing it as a once-vibrant research hub that played a crucial role in supporting farmers in semi-arid areas through innovations and training.

“Revamping NASARI and equipping it with modern facilities will not only promote agricultural research but also enhance farmers’ productivity through access to improved technologies and resilient farming methods,” Echodu noted. “This will help accelerate wealth creation and strengthen the Parish Development Model.”

His remarks received overwhelming support from the enthusiastic crowd, many of whom echoed the call for greater investment in local research and agricultural development.

In his response, President Museveni praised Echodu for his commitment to addressing grassroots challenges and reaffirmed his government’s resolve to support fishermen and farmers across the country. The President pledged to consider a review of the fishing policies and look into the rehabilitation of NASARI as part of the broader effort to transform Uganda’s rural economy.

The Serere rally marked another key stop on the President’s mobilization tour of the Teso Sub-region, as he continues to consolidate NRM’s support ahead of the 2026 general elections.