The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) has intensified efforts to protect Uganda’s fisheries resources after handing over new equipment, including engines, to fisheries teams operating on the country’s lakes and other water bodies.
The equipment is expected to improve the ability of fisheries officers to carry out supervision, monitor fishing activities and enforce regulations aimed at controlling illegal fishing practices. The intervention is intended to strengthen operations across Uganda’s major water bodies.
Speaking during the launch and handover ceremony, State Minister for Fisheries Hon. Robert Migadde said Government remains committed to protecting the country’s fisheries resources while maintaining a good working relationship with fishing communities and other people who depend on the water bodies.
Migadde said enforcement should not always be associated with confrontation between Government officials and fishermen. He urged fisheries teams to engage fishing communities and work with them to promote compliance with the law and responsible use of Uganda’s aquatic resources.
“We are doing everything possible to ensure that we work closely with the people who use our lakes. The relationship between the Ministry teams and the fishing communities should not be based on fights, but on engagement and cooperation,” Migadde said.
The Minister, however, warned that Government would continue taking action against illegal and destructive fishing methods that threaten fish stocks. He said enforcement remains necessary to protect the fisheries sector from practices that could undermine its long-term sustainability.
Migadde further said Government is prepared to support and finance fisheries activities in line with the commitment made by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to strengthen the sector. He said increased support would enable fisheries teams to perform their duties more effectively.
The new Quality Assurance and Enforcement tools are expected to improve monitoring, help fisheries officers respond to violations and promote compliance with established standards. MAAIF said it will continue working with fishing communities to ensure Uganda’s fisheries resources remain productive and sustainable for current and future generations.
