Uganda’s Fisheries Protection Unit cracks down on illegal fishing gear worth Shs137M

UGANDA – In a sweeping operation across Buliisa district, Uganda’s Fisheries Protection Unit (FPU), part of the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF), has seized and destroyed illegal fishing equipment valued at Shs137 million (approximately US$32,000). 

The three-month operation, spanning from August to October 2024, targeted the shores of Lake Albert and culminated in the destruction of confiscated gear, including 12 boats and hundreds of illegal fishing nets.

According to Lieutenant George Ntungire, sector commander for the Buliisa Fisheries Protection Unit, these quarterly operations are part of an ongoing strategy to curb illegal fishing practices. 

Using prohibited equipment, including mosquito nets, poses a serious risk to Lake Albert’s fish populations, especially its juvenile stock, undermining sustainability efforts. 

“Some fishermen are using mosquito nets that do not spare any fish, including young ones,” Lt. Ntungire remarked, underscoring the urgency to tackle the issue for the protection of aquatic resources.

Fred Kutegeka, the Buliisa district fisheries officer, expressed frustration over the persistence of illegal fishing despite extensive sensitisation efforts. 

He emphasised that many fishermen resist compliance with the regulations, often returning to illegal methods even after confiscations and penalties. 

This noncompliance has frustrated the district’s initiatives to maintain healthy fish stocks, especially given the government’s strict stance on sustainable fishing.

Buliisa district officials and local leaders have pledged to address any allegations of corruption within the fisheries enforcement ranks to strengthen enforcement. 

Longino Bahebwa, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Buliisa, revealed that investigations are ongoing to ensure impartiality in enforcing the ban on illegal fishing gear. 

“We aim to implement the directive as guided by the president, and there will be no discrimination in upholding the law,” Bahebwa emphasised.

In response to the recurring challenges faced by fishermen, Alan Atugonza, the Buliisa County representative, proposed a solution to aid compliance. 

He suggested establishing a fisheries loan program to support fishermen in purchasing legally approved gear, allowing them to sustain their livelihoods without resorting to illegal methods. This appeal has been submitted to the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries for consideration.

The FPU has remained firm in its stance, with operations officer Major Frank Kazira calling on local leaders to avoid politicising these operations, as this undermines the agency’s efforts. 

“We have worked tirelessly to secure a court order and implement enforcement measures. The magnitude of this problem is staggering,” Maj. Kazira stated. He urged fishermen to adopt sustainable practices for the benefit of future generations.

The illegal gear was destroyed in the Butiaba town council in the Buliisa district. Leaders and fishermen gathered to witness the burning of the seized equipment, which included 15 boat seines, 500 boxes of undersized hooks, 560 repurposed mosquito nets, and 40 small boats. 

While similar operations have destroyed illegal fishing gear worth Shs800 million (approximately US$210,000) earlier this year, illegal practices persist, posing a continued threat to Lake Albert’s fish population, including species like Nile perch.

In closing, the local mayor of Butiaba town council, Musa Asaba, commended the FPU’s efforts to restore order in Lake Albert’s waters, highlighting the positive impact these operations have had on the lake’s ecosystem. 

However, as authorities continue their efforts, community leaders stress the importance of sustained education to help fishermen understand the economic and ecological consequences of illegal fishing practices.

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