economy 27 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Nile Perch Prices Surge Amidst Falling Catches in Uganda
The price of Nile perch has significantly increased across several Ugandan markets due to a sharp decline in fish catches. Fishermen report substantial losses as their yields dwindle, impacting livelihoods and local economies. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/nile-perch-prices-soar-as-catches-decline-5611600
Prices for the prized Nile perch have seen a dramatic surge over the last eight months, driven by a significant decrease in the quantity of fish being caught. In key markets such as Busia, Tororo, Bugiri, Namayingo, Malaba, and Mbale, the price per kilogram has climbed from an average of Shs14,000 to Shs18,000.
Traders at landing sites are reporting drastically reduced supplies. David Maloba, a fish vendor in Busia for three years, noted that his daily sales have plummeted from around 10 kilogrammes to just three or four, with some days yielding nothing at all. This scarcity, he explained, directly fuels the price increase.
Fishermen themselves are facing severe financial strain. Robert Kiyingi, who operates 30 fishing boats, shared that many vessels are returning with minimal catches, sometimes as little as three kilogrammes or even empty. With daily fuel costs at Shs75,000 per boat and other operational expenses including wages, gear maintenance, and taxes, a meager catch like four kilogrammes at Shs12,500 per kilo barely covers costs, leading to substantial losses.
The situation has been deteriorating since 2022, according to fishermen like Ronald Lubega, whose boats previously brought in 10 to 15 kilogrammes. The reduced catches have made fishing unsustainable for many, leading to a significant drop in the number of active fishing boats at landing sites like Maninga Beach, which has seen its fleet shrink from about 500 to under 200.
The ripple effect extends beyond fishermen, impacting casual workers who sort nets and food vendors who are now struggling to sell their products. Local government revenue has also been affected by the decline in this crucial economic activity.
Fishermen point to illegal fishing practices and the smuggling of banned gear as primary culprits for the dwindling stocks in Lake Victoria. Authorities have been actively confiscating illegal nets and equipment, expressing optimism that community cooperation will help curb these practices.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)