Rwanda National Police

In a bid to improve and encourage safety and security on water bodies, Rwanda National Police (RNP) donated 62 life jackets worth Rwf500, 000 to fishermen operating in Lake Rweru in Rweru Sector, Bugesera District.

The life jackets were handed over by Chief Supt. Celestin Twahirwa, Commissioner for Public Relations and Media on February 20 in a ceremony which attracted over 80 fishermen representing a bigger group estimated to be close to 200. Present were also local leaders from the district and sector levels.

In his speech, CSP Twahirwa called on the fishing community to exploit water resources sustainably as well as ensure safety and security of their lives by wearing protective gear whenever they go out to fish.

"The fishing profession is vital for Rwanda; however, it can also be dangerous for those who do not put their safety first. It is for this reason that Police has come out to provide support in a bid to boost their role in maintaining security on the lake and enhance partnership in the fishing business," he said.

"Important as well, you should ensure that your profession is not exploited by criminals who transport smuggled goods and illicit drugs on the water bodies. Ensure that you use your profession to make your lives better," Twahirwa added

He also appealed to them not to allow criminals use the water transport to escape justice and be partners to security organs in maintaining security on this lake.

Theoneste Musale, the representative of fishermen in the region, commended Police for continuously showing support to the fishermen, and urged his counterparts to always cooperate with Police through the provision of timely information that helps to prevent or solve crimes in the region. He reminded the gathering previous drowning cases especially in 2009 where they lost very many lives including passengers from Mazane Island.

He promised they will utilize the jackets and work hard to acquire more.

"By providing fishermen with protective gear, Police has once again shown its good gesture of being a service-led force that is dedicated to the safety and betterment of the people. Therefore, let us heed to the law and ensure that our partnership with Police is useful," Musale said.

Police has continuously called for good fishing practices and safety - and has reached out to fishing communities on various water bodies in the country with information in the form of sensitization seminars.

Last year, the Force donated 100 life jackets to fishermen in Rubavu in order to ensure their safety and courage them to adopt the practice.