Uganda restricts mukene fishing to 14 days a month under new guidelines

The Ugandan government has introduced new guidelines for fishing activities on the country's water bodies, restricting mukene fishing to 14 days a month. The guidelines, announced by State Minister for Fisheries Robert Migadde Ndugwa, aim to regulate fishing activities and promote sustainable fishing practices. The new regulations will apply to fishers targeting mukene, ragoogi, and muziri.

Under the new guidelines, fishing will be permitted for only 14 days from the beginning of the dark phase of the moon each month. This restriction aims to prevent overfishing and allow fish populations to replenish. Additionally, fishing vessels must operate at least two kilometres from the shoreline and avoid fish breeding grounds and other restricted areas to minimize the impact on the aquatic ecosystem.

The government has maintained the ban on solar-powered fishing lights and lampara nets, which are considered destructive fishing gear. Each vessel will be allowed a maximum of two kerosene-powered lanterns and one scoop net with a mesh size of at least eight millimetres. Furthermore, fishing boats must be at least 24 feet long and carry no more than two crew members to ensure safe and responsible fishing practices.

To operate under the new guidelines, fishers must hold a silver fish fishing licence in 2023, 2024, 2025, or 2026. Boat owners will be required to present their vessels and fishing equipment for inspection before obtaining licences. Applicants must also provide proof of Ugandan citizenship, vessel ownership, and previous fishing licences to ensure that only eligible individuals are granted licences.

The guidelines give traditional fishing communities preferential access to licences within their areas, while foreign fishing vessels remain prohibited from fishing in Ugandan waters. The annual licensing process will begin with recommendations in November, followed by inspections in December and licensing between January and March. This process aims to ensure that all fishing activities are properly regulated and monitored.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries has directed fishers not to operate without valid licences and says enforcement agencies will monitor compliance with the new requirements. The ministry will work with local authorities to ensure that all fishers adhere to the new guidelines and regulations. Failure to comply with the regulations may result in penalties or revocation of licences.

The new guidelines are expected to promote sustainable fishing practices and improve the management of Uganda's fisheries resources. By regulating fishing activities and enforcing compliance, the government aims to conserve fish populations and protect the livelihoods of communities that depend on fishing. The guidelines will also help to prevent illegal fishing activities and promote responsible fishing practices in Uganda's water bodies.

Key points

• The Ugandan government has restricted mukene fishing to 14 days a month under new guidelines aimed at regulating fishing activities and promoting sustainable fishing practices.