Summary:
Rhoda Ongoche Akechi broke societal taboos in 2002 by becoming one of the first women to fish on Lake Victoria, challenging a longstanding belief that women would scare away fish. At 39, struggling economically as a fishmonger, she inspired by women from Homa Bay County took the bold step to fish herself, despite community disapproval.
Initially, Akechi fished alone for 16 years until Faith Awuor Anwo joined her in 2018, followed by Dorcas Awiyo in 2020 and Janet Endway in 2022. Economic necessity and changing attitudes have gradually made fishing by women more accepted in the community, though resistance still exists, particularly from husbands.
The women’s earnings from fishing are significantly higher than what they made as fishmongers, allowing them to support their families better amidst increasing economic pressures. However, they now face environmental challenges, including declining fish populations due to climate change and other factors.
Despite their efforts, the local authority does not officially recognize women as active fishers, creating barriers to support and resources. Yet, the women persist, knowing their contributions are vital to their families and communities. They continue to confront both environmental changes and traditional barriers while advocating for their place in the fishing economy of Lake Victoria.
