Uganda has introduced strict measures governing the fishing of small pelagic fish across all its water bodies.
Hellen Adoa, the Minister of State for Fisheries, announced that the capture of small pelagic fish will now be restricted to the scoop net fishing method, exclusively during the dark phases of the month. Daytime fishing and fishing during moonlit nights are immediately prohibited.
The minister highlighted concerns over the widespread use of the “hurry up” method, involving large fishing nets that cover extensive areas and indiscriminately target various fish species and biodiversity.
Furthermore, unauthorized foreigners are barred from engaging in small pelagic fishing, with penalties outlined for those found violating this regulation.
Adoa emphasized the responsibility of fisheries departments at both central and local levels, as well as enforcement agencies, to ensure compliance with these measures through public awareness campaigns and enforcement actions.
The Ministry of Fisheries underscores the importance of sustainable exploitation of the small pelagic fishery, which constitutes a significant portion of Uganda’s commercial fisheries and plays a crucial role in the livelihoods of over 60 percent of fishing communities in the region.
According to ministry data, small pelagic fishing contributes more than 70 percent of Uganda’s annual fish catch and employs a majority of individuals involved in various activities within the fisheries value chain.
