Migingo Island, situated on Lake Victoria—the largest lake in Africa—is a remarkable example of human resilience and territorial complexity. Spanning just 2,000 square meters, this tiny island is home to over 500 residents, primarily fishermen, making it one of the most densely populated places on Earth.

Despite its size, the island boasts a vibrant community with 1 in everything, including a pub, a pharmacy, a brothel, a beauty salon, and even a casino.

The island has lake flies that make a lot of people sick. Common illness are UTI, Typhoid, and Malaria – Stephen Ndukwu.

The primary reason for the island’s settlement is its rich fishing grounds, teeming with Nile perch, a valuable fish species that supports both local livelihoods and international trade. This abundance has attracted fishermen from Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, leading to a thriving microeconomy.

Everyone is into fishing. The Nile fish is in abundance here. It is exported to China for $300 per kilogram. – Steven Ndukwu

The territorial dispute between Kenya and Uganda over Migingo Island has been ongoing for decades. Kenya asserts that the island is part of its territory, citing colonial-era maps and the presence of Kenyan Luo fishermen.

Conversely, Uganda claims the surrounding waters, which are rich in fish stocks, as its own. In 2009, both nations agreed to a joint administration of the island, allowing for shared governance and resource management.

Despite the ongoing dispute, the residents of Migingo Island continue to live and work in harmony, navigating the complexities of their unique situation with resilience and adaptability.