Fisherfolk and Exporters Demand Clear Regulations and Military Reform

Uganda’s vital fishing sector is facing mounting pressure as industry stakeholders, exporters, and civil society representatives demand urgent reforms to address systemic enforcement abuses and widespread labor rights violations.

During a collaborative meeting in Kampala organized by FIAN Uganda and the Uganda National Forum on Business and Human Rights, leaders highlighted a deep rift between fishing communities and maritime enforcement personnel. Local leaders, including Kalangala District LC5 Chairperson Victoria Namugenyi, pointed out that military officers deployed to enforce lake regulations often lack proper training, frequently impounding gear and harassing workers without explaining legal infractions.

William Tibyasa, Executive Director of the Uganda Fish Processors and Exporters Association, echoed these grievances, noting that fisherfolk routinely suffer unprovoked mistreatment. Mr. Tibyasa also clarified common regulatory misunderstandings, stressing that the government has not banned the harvesting of silverfish, locally known as Mukene, but has instead restricted destructive fishing methods and the overuse of bright night lights.

Beyond enforcement challenges, workplace exploitation remains a severe concern across major water bodies such as Lake Kyoga, Kalangala, Buvuma, and Kiyindi. Shafic Kagimu, Head of Programmes at FIAN Uganda, revealed that commercial cage fish companies are frequently violating labor rights. Resty Nabukeera, a fish farmer from Buikwe District, added that marginalized workers often struggle to find proper channels to seek redress against abusive employers.

To safeguard livelihoods and protect aquatic ecosystems, stakeholders have urged the government to implement a harmonized national policy. Richard Obedi, Executive Director of The Populace Foundation International, further advised commercial fish farmers to form unified bodies to secure a collective voice in policy discussions.

Read the original story on the Daily Monitor.