Political interference threatens Uganda’s fight against illegal fishing on Lake Victoria

UGANDA – Political interference is derailing efforts to combat illegal fishing on Lake Victoria, as Ugandan authorities face mounting pressure from local leaders accused of shielding offenders in the run-up to the 2026 general elections.

Once hailed for curbing destructive fishing practices and restoring fish stocks, Uganda’s Fisheries Protection Unit (FPU) is now struggling to maintain progress amid claims of political sabotage. 

FPU officials say some politicians are obstructing enforcement operations to curry favour with fishing communities that wield significant electoral influence.

“It’s no longer just about conservation; it’s politics,” a senior FPU officer told Monitor, a prominent Ugandan news outlet, speaking on condition of anonymity. “We’re told to ease off or avoid certain individuals, which undermines our progress.”

The FPU has been at the forefront of fighting illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, which includes using banned gear, fishing in protected breeding zones, and operating without permits. 

These practices have long plagued Lake Victoria, which is shared by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. 

According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), IUU fishing leads to overfishing, habitat destruction, and loss of biodiversity, with dire consequences for food security and livelihoods.

Over the past seven years, the FPU and its partners have intensified patrols and enforcement. Their efforts have borne fruit, with many fishers reporting larger fish sizes and increased catches. However, progress is now threatened by political meddling.

An investigation by Monitor revealed that local leaders have pressured FPU officers, demanded the release of confiscated boats and illegal gear, and even threatened enforcement teams. 

In some cases, suspects arrested for illegal fishing were reportedly released following political intervention.

Different stakeholders voice similar concerns 

Mr Johnson Tabule, chairperson of fisheries at Old Bridge Landing Site in Jinja City, acknowledged the gains made through stricter enforcement but warned of a growing risk of backsliding. 

“The FPU and other agencies have been doing a good job, but the interference is setting us back,” he said.

Fishers on the ground are also expressing frustration. Mr Derrick Were, a fisherman at Kisenyi Landing Site in Buikwe, said political and commercial interests are empowering rule-breakers.

“We’re fighting a losing battle. Some politicians and businesspersons back factions that defy regulations, undermining our fisheries,” Mr Were said. “It’s frustrating to see offenders with connections go unpunished while we follow the law.”

He warned that if illegal fishing continues unchecked, Lake Victoria’s fish stocks could collapse.

Calls for greater institutional support are growing louder. Mr Philimon Kuderi, chairperson of the Association of Fishers and Ushers of Lakes of Uganda (AFALU) – Eastern Region, praised the FPU’s work but stressed that the unit is overstretched.

“The FPU has done great work, but is working alone. They need reinforcement to tackle illegal fishing and ensure security on Uganda’s waters,” Mr Kuderi said. 

He also pointed to the involvement of powerful individuals in protecting illegal practices and noted that cross-border theft of fishing gear has heightened tensions.

Lt Lauben Ndifula, the FPU spokesperson, confirmed that political interference is a major concern. “Politicians deceive fishers by promising to remove the army from the water,” he said, referencing the FPU’s military presence on Lake Victoria.

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.