Lake Bunyonyi Boat Operators Threaten Strike Over Shs400,000 Licensing Fees

Boat operators on Lake Bunyonyi have petitioned the Ministry of Works and Transport for special consideration regarding upcoming enforcement of boat registration and licensing fees. Led by chairman Noah Mubangizi, the operators argue that the local transport sector is not as lucrative as those on major Ugandan lakes where fishing and commercial transport thrive.

Mubangizi explained that water transport on Lake Bunyonyi primarily serves local farmers crossing to their gardens, charity-run vessels carrying students, and community members attending social functions. Tourism traffic has also dwindled significantly since investors established camps closer to Bwindi and Mgahinga national parks between 2010 and 2026. Because of these financial constraints, operators warn that imposing identical fees to those on larger water bodies is unfair and could force about 30 boat owners out of the trade.

The concerns arose during a sensitization meeting on inland water regulations led by acting Principal Marine Licensing Officer Barnabas Twinomujuni. Ministry officials outlined strict measures requiring all dugout canoes and boats to be registered and licensed, warning that non-compliance could lead to a Shs4 million fine, a four-year prison sentence, or both. Under the new guidelines, smaller boats carrying up to 10 passengers face a combined initial cost including Shs200,000 for five-year registration and annual licensing fees.

Local leaders voiced additional concerns during the gathering. Kabungo village LC1 chairman Emmanuel Akankwasa urged the government to improve sanitary facilities and supply garbage skips to curb lake pollution. Meanwhile, Kabale Resident District Commissioner Major Godfrey Katamba encouraged operators to comply with the directives to ensure passenger safety and smooth business operations.

Read more about this story in the Daily Monitor.