environment 18 June 2026 Nile Post
Government Imposes Stricter Fishing Regulations on Lake Victoria
Uganda has introduced new, stringent regulations for fishing activities on Lake Victoria, including limits on fishermen and boats per landing site, to combat illegal practices and preserve fish stocks. Enforcement efforts are intensifying, though tensions with fishing communities persist. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/349562/government-tightens-regulations-on-lake-victoria-fishing-to-curb-illegal-practices
The Ugandan government is implementing a comprehensive overhaul of fishing regulations on Lake Victoria, aiming to curb persistent illegal fishing practices that threaten the sustainability of the region’s vital fish stocks. These new measures, announced at Senyondo Landing Site in Mpigi District by Lt Gen Samuel Okiding, Deputy Commander of the UPDF, introduce stricter limits on the number of fishermen and boats allowed at each designated landing site, capping them at 200 fishermen and 66 boats respectively.
Further restrictions target specific practices, such as a ban on the use of lights for mukene (silverfish) fishing. These changes come in response to ongoing challenges despite years of enforcement operations, with authorities highlighting the detrimental impact of harvesting immature fish, utilizing illegal nets, and employing prohibited fishing methods.
While security forces have been deployed to enforce the laws, illegal fishing remains rampant, leading to increased confrontations. Fishermen have voiced grievances, accusing security personnel of excessive force, arbitrary arrests, and confiscation of gear. They also expressed concern over the loss of life during enforcement pursuits and questioned the focus on fishermen rather than those who supply illegal fishing equipment.
Lt Gen Okiding urged adherence to legal fishing standards, including proper net sizes and authorized vessels. He also announced the closure of all illegal landing sites and warned of severe penalties, including up to eight years imprisonment, for possession of illegal fishing gear without proof of purchase. The government also plans economic support for fishing communities, with a Shs1 billion allocation per district earmarked for each district with fishing communities.
The announcement was followed by the destruction of confiscated illegal fishing gear, signifying the government’s renewed commitment to sustainable fishing. The new regulations seek to safeguard the future of the fishing industry on Lake Victoria.
Source: Nile Post