news 8 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Over 500 Kalangala Fishermen Seek Refuge in Tanzania Amidst Strict Fishing Regulations
A stringent crackdown on illegal fishing practices on Lake Victoria has prompted over 500 fishermen from Kalangala District to flee to neighboring Tanzania. The new regulations, aimed at conserving fish stocks, have led to arrests and significant disruption of livelihoods. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/over-500-kalangala-fishermen-flee-to-tanzania-as-new-lake-victoria-rules-bite-5451422
More than 500 fishermen based in Kalangala District have crossed into Tanzania, bringing their boats with them, as a result of the intensified enforcement of new fishing regulations on Lake Victoria. The measures, part of a national operation to curb illegal fishing, include bans on certain fishing gear, restrictions on night fishing, mandatory licensing, limitations on boat numbers, and the prohibition of permanent structures near the lake.
Kalangala Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Fred Badda confirmed that the exodus began in March following the increased operations. While some fishermen have returned, the exact number currently in Tanzania remains unconfirmed. District authorities are in communication with Tanzanian officials to facilitate the release of any detained Ugandan fishermen.
Since the enforcement drive commenced on March 7, 2026, over 90 fishermen have been apprehended within Kalangala’s waters, many of whom were non-residents. The legal outcomes for these individuals have varied, including cautions, remand, and convictions.
Despite the disruption, indigenous fishing communities and landing site committees have reportedly supported the enforcement efforts. However, the social and economic impacts are mixed. Some fishermen have noted a slight improvement in fish stocks, with larger Nile Perch being caught. Conversely, landing sites that relied heavily on the silver fish trade have experienced a sharp decline in activity, leading to business closures.
Kalangala District leaders have raised concerns about the uneven enforcement of the regulations, suggesting that some well-connected individuals may still be operating illegally. Questions have also been raised about how illegal fishing gear continues to bypass border controls.
Authorities acknowledge the challenges in achieving perfect enforcement but are committed to continuing and improving the operation to restore fish stocks on Lake Victoria, which have declined over the past decade due to illegal fishing.
The crackdown is a continuation of efforts initiated in December 2025, involving restructured fisheries committees and the renaming of the Fisheries Protection Unit to the 155 Marines Battalion under the UPDF Marines Brigade.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)