Speaking on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, during the Piny Luo Cultural Festival held at Senye Beach in Migori County, the president said Kenya would use all available means to safeguard its citizens on the Lake Victoria island.
His remarks came after local leaders raised concerns over continued intimidation of Kenyan fishermen by Ugandan security officers operating around Migingo Island.
President Ruto was firm in his position, stating clearly that the island lies within Kenya’s borders and that no Kenyan should be mistreated while carrying out lawful economic activities there.
He assured residents that the government would act decisively to ensure peace, safety, and uninterrupted business operations on the island.
According to the president, Kenya will pursue diplomatic channels and other necessary measures to prevent harassment and create a safe environment for fishermen and traders.
He emphasised that protecting citizens is a key responsibility of the state and that economic activities on the island must continue without fear.
The issue was brought to the president’s attention by leaders from the lake region, including Siaya Governor James Orengo, who urged the national government to intervene.
Local leaders complained that Kenyan fishermen have repeatedly faced arrests, intimidation, and demands for permits by Ugandan forces, despite Migingo Island being Kenyan territory.
Residents say the situation affects livelihoods, especially during peak fishing seasons when the island’s population grows from hundreds to thousands.
Migingo Island has been at the centre of a Kenya–Uganda territorial dispute since around 2004.
The conflict escalated after Uganda deployed armed police and marine forces to the island and raised its national flag, triggering protests from Kenyan fishermen and leaders.
Tensions peaked in early 2009, when Ugandan authorities demanded that Kenyan fishermen obtain special permits to fish near the island.
Uganda claimed that while Migingo itself was Kenyan, the surrounding waters belonged to Uganda.
This position sparked diplomatic confrontations between Nairobi and Kampala, putting pressure on Kenya’s government at the time to respond firmly.
Later in 2009, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni publicly acknowledged that Migingo Island belongs to Kenya.
Following that admission, Uganda removed its flag from the island and withdrew armed personnel. However, disagreements over fishing zones in Lake Victoria have continued to cause friction.
Kenyan fishermen have since reported occasional intimidation, including warning shots fired into the air by armed officers, forcing traders and residents to hide indoors.
Migingo Island is a critical fishing hub in Lake Victoria and plays a major role in the regional fish trade.
Thousands of Kenyans depend on fishing activities around the island for their daily income, making security and stability essential for livelihoods.
President Ruto said protecting economic activities on the island is necessary for national growth and regional harmony.
The president’s statement has renewed national attention on Kenya’s sovereignty over Migingo Island and the welfare of its citizens there.
Many residents and leaders welcomed his firm stance, expressing hope that it would finally bring lasting peace and security to the island.
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