UPDF and Agriculture Ministry Unite to Rescue Uganda's Fisheries

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has graduated 56 personnel after a three-month course in fisheries enforcement law. This move is a significant step in the joint effort with the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) to tackle illegal fishing and revitalize Uganda’s vital fisheries sector.

The training, conducted at the Marine Training School in Kalangalo, is part of a strategic reorganization that has placed the former Fisheries Protection Unit back under the command of the UPDF Marine Brigade. This integration is designed to enhance law enforcement across Uganda’s extensive water bodies and boost fish production.

Brigadier General Michael Nyarwa, Commander of the Marine Brigade, urged the new officers to maintain high standards of discipline and teamwork. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between military and civilian bodies, stating, “When spiderwebs unite, they can tie a lion,” to highlight the necessity of coordinated efforts in safeguarding aquatic resources.

The dire state of the industry was emphasized by Mr. Alfred Akankwasta, representing MAAIF. He noted that only four fish processing factories remain operational due to severe shortages of raw materials, largely caused by overfishing and illegal practices. “Stronger protection and sustainable management of fish resources are desperately needed to allow the regeneration and recovery of the fishing industry,” Akankwasta stressed.

Colonel David Kararira, Commandant of the Marine Training School, assured attendees that the trainees are well-equipped with both theoretical and practical skills. The newly trained personnel are ready for immediate deployment to address the critical challenges facing Uganda’s fisheries.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/updf-ministry-of-agriculture-join-forces-to-guard-uganda-s-declining-fisheries-industry-5472892