The UPDF Fisheries Protection Unit (FPU) is claiming credit for a significant increase in fish stocks within Uganda’s water bodies. According to Lt Col Mercy Tukahirwa, the FPU Commander, this surge in fish populations is a direct result of the unit’s rigorous enforcement measures.
Lt Col Tukahirwa made these observations during a three-day tour (17-19 April 2024) of fish processing factories in Jinja and Kampala districts. Visiting facilities such as Nyanza Perch factory, Lake Eco Fish Processing Limited, and Yalelo Private Cage Fish Company in Jinja, she emphasized the correlation between FPU’s engagements with fishing communities and the rise in fish processing factories.
The tour also included visits to Fresh Perch Factory, Nile Perch Company, and Lake Bounty Group Company in Ntinda, Kampala. Lt Col Tukahirwa highlighted the importance of fostering a positive relationship between the FPU and the fishing industry, attributing increased employment opportunities and expanded tax revenues to their collaboration.
Despite expressing appreciation for the fishing industry’s cooperation, Lt Col Tukahirwa issued a stern warning against engaging in unlawful practices throughout the fish production chain.
At Nile Perch Company, Managing Director Mr. Manoj Sreekanta commended FPU’s efforts in enforcing legal fishing practices, noting a subsequent increase in fish yield. He attributed their weekly production of approximately 50 tons of fish to FPU’s initiatives, particularly in maintaining fish populations at recommended sizes.
Similarly, Mr. Bitsinze Nkurunziza, Managing Director of Yalelo Private Cage, praised FPU for enhancing security on water bodies, facilitating daily operations and enabling increased fish production for markets in Kenya, DR Congo, and Uganda. He cited an annual production increase from 8000 tons to 700 tons monthly due to FPU’s activities.
Acknowledging the guidance from President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Mr. Rakesh Shetty, Managing Director of Lake Bounty Group Company, credited the establishment of FPU with averting environmental degradation and revitalizing the fishing industry.
Throughout the visit, Lt Col Tukahirwa was briefed on persistent challenges including poor fishing practices, environmental changes, and inadequate infrastructure hindering the industry’s growth.
Accompanied by Operations Officer Maj Frank Kanzira, Intelligence Officer Maj Joseph Cherop, and Counter Intelligence Officer Lt Nabasa, among others, Lt Col Tukahirwa’s tour shed light on the complex dynamics shaping Uganda’s fisheries sector under FPU’s oversight.
