By Nasser Kayanja
The Chief Executive Officer of the Uganda Fish Processors and Exporters Association (UFPEA), William Tibyasa, has called upon the UPDF’s 155 Marine Battalion to intensify efforts against illegal fishing and illicit fish trade, warning that the vice continues to cost Uganda more than US$1.5 billion annually.
Tibyasa made the remarks during a four-day seminar for commanders of the 155 Marine Battalion held at the Marine Detachment Headquarters in Entebbe.
He noted that despite President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni assigning the military the responsibility of protecting Uganda’s water bodies and combating illegal fishing practices, the problem remains widespread nearly a decade later.
“From history, the UPDF has never lost any war. In fact, they are known for winning swiftly. We are therefore concerned that almost ten years later, illegal fishing and black-market fish trade continue to thrive, costing the country jobs, investments, food security, and more than US$1.5 billion annually,” Tibyasa said.
He urged the marine commanders to strengthen enforcement against destructive fishing practices, particularly the banned “Hurry-Up” Mukene fishing method, which results in massive juvenile fish by-catch and threatens the sustainability of Uganda’s fisheries resources.
According to Tibyasa, an estimated 50,553 tonnes of juvenile Nile perch are destroyed annually through illegal and destructive fishing methods. If allowed to mature, these fish would represent a future economic value of approximately US$509 million each year.
He further called for tougher action against the importation, sale, and use of prohibited fishing gear, including monofilament nets, illegal mesh-size nets, and other equipment commonly associated with illegal fishing activities.
“The 155 Marine Battalion should also focus on monitoring entry points, stores, and shops dealing in illegal fishing gear. Eliminating these tools from the market will significantly reduce destructive fishing practices on our lakes,” he said.
Tibyasa emphasized that effective enforcement of fisheries regulations would ensure the long-term sustainability of fish stocks and secure livelihoods for communities, processors, exporters, and other stakeholders who depend on the fisheries sector.
Meanwhile, he announced that Uganda’s Nile perch products will be showcased at an importers’ dinner during the Barcelona Seafood Exposition in 2027, an opportunity expected to further promote Uganda’s fish exports on the international market.
He reaffirmed UFPEA’s commitment to working closely with the 155 Marine Battalion by providing guidance and support as they carry out their mandate of protecting Uganda’s fisheries resources and enforcing sustainable fishing practices.
Tibyasa said collaboration between government agencies, the military, and private-sector stakeholders remains crucial in safeguarding the country’s fisheries industry and maximizing its contribution to national economic development.