(De) Constructing Linguistic Views among Fishers Toward Sustainable Fishery Co Operatives in Victoria Lake Zone

Abstract

The study explored how fishers in Muleba District shape their views on forming sustainable fishery cooperatives through their use of language. It specifically analysed their linguistic perspectives on nominations/predications, argumentations, perspectives, and mitigations to understand their views. Sixty participants were purposively selected for interviews, and data analysis followed discursive strategies from Wodak (2015). The findings revealed that fishers used two main categories: “soldiers” and “owners.” “Soldiers” were described as hard workers but transient and unfocused, while “owners” were characterized as hard workers who were either educated or not, possessed high capital, and could make collective decisions. The linguistic arguments connected to member benefits and the government's role in monitoring fishing gear. Perspectives included the importance of member benefits, competent leadership, effective communication, warehouse receipt systems, product diversification, strategic planning, and the protection of aquatic and fishery facilities. Mitigating factors highlighted in the study were inadequate government recognition, low awareness of fishing practices, theft, free-riders, corrupt leaders, insufficient member benefits, and a lack of training. The study recommends focusing on the “owners,” as their characteristics are conducive to sustainable fishery cooperatives. To achieve sustainability, stakeholders should address member benefits, owner-based membership, communication, strategic planning, warehousing practices, product diversification, collective decision-making, and protection of fisheries.