news 2 October 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
UHRC Urges Fishermen to Shun Illegal Practices to Prevent Rights Abuses
The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has advised fishermen to cease illegal fishing activities, citing these as a primary cause for rights violations during enforcement operations. The commission highlighted that many complaints of abuse stemmed from the use of banned gear and subsequent actions by security forces. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/stop-illegal-fishing-to-avoid-rights-abuses-uhrc-tells-fishermen-5616998
The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) is calling on the fishing community to adhere strictly to legal practices to mitigate the risk of human rights abuses during enforcement operations. Ms. Juliet Logose, Central Region Human Rights Officer, stated that numerous fishermen have reported rights violations, often linked to the use of prohibited fishing gear.
These complaints have been directed at the former Fisheries Protection Unit (FPU) for alleged misconduct during their duties on water bodies. Ms. Logose emphasized that compliance with fishing laws could significantly reduce these incidents. “Fishermen opened cases of rights abuse during FPU operations on water bodies, but this can be avoided if they follow the law,” she noted.
In response, the UHRC has initiated a project, in collaboration with Enabel and the European Union, aimed at sensitizing both fisheries stakeholders and security agencies on the importance of mutual respect for human rights. This initiative includes training sessions for Fisheries Management Committee members and security officers, such as those from the 155 Marine Battalion, to address human rights concerns on the water.
Mr. Kamadi Byonabye, Acting Secretary General of UHRC, confirmed that reports of arbitrary arrests, beatings, and torture have been made by fishermen. He stressed the crucial role of fisheries management committees and security officers in upholding the law during enforcement, as they are in direct contact with those in the industry. “Enforcement must therefore be guided by the law,” Mr. Byonabye stated.
He also acknowledged the EU and Enabel’s support for the “Advancing Respect for Human Rights by Business in Uganda” project, which has already engaged stakeholders in Wakiso and Mukono, and is set to expand to the Busoga region.
While acknowledging past abuses, Maj. Nathan Abaho of the Marine Battalion clarified that such incidents were individual actions, not institutional policy of the UPDF. He also pointed out that security personnel face abuse from fishermen, though these instances are rarely publicized. Mukono District Principal Fisheries Officer, Mr. William Isabaiddu, indicated that mistreatment has decreased since the deployment of the 155 Marine Battalion, thanking President Museveni for addressing fishermen’s concerns.