Regulations to improve the fishing sector

The new laws will see everyone involved in the fish sector pay for a licence to operate or run a fish business.

Engaging in any fishing activity for commercial or recreational purposes will not be done without a licence, according to the new
regulations released by the agriculture ministry. Any person, including those residing close to water bodies and would freely go fishing, will now be required to obtain a licence before engaging in fishing related activities. According to the guidelines for
the fisheries licensing 2020, even fishing in swamps across the country will be subject to obtain a licence.

The new regulations will also cover boats and canoe builders, fishermen, trucks, dealers and transporters of smoked and dried fish as well as fishmongers. All intending persons shall specify the species of fish for which the licence is being applied. Individuals intending to deal in more than one specie shall require more than one license and the fees for each licence shall be as provided for.
The development was confirmed by Dr. Edward Rukunya, the head of the directorate of fisheries resources at the ministry.

Rukunya said the licensing exercise for all activities will start immediately . the move is aimed at ensuring constant supply of fishing resources. “ the guide lines are part of the implementation of the fishing rules of 2020. We have to regulate this sector to
economically benefit from our fishing resources as a country, “ he said. Initially, Rukunya said, fishing in swamps had not
been under the ministry, but rather a few local governments. “ some local governments would charge for fishing in wetlands. But not, it will be done nationally by the ministry,” Rukunya said yesterday. He added that players in the sector will be required to
renew their licenses every year and that the fees will be collected by the Uganda Revenue Authority ( URA). Between 2018 and 2019, Uganda recorded improved performance under the fisheries sub-sector, which is attributed to the strict laws.
Last Uganda recorded an increase in fish production from 449,311 metric tonnes in 2018 to 561,065 metric tonnes. in the same period , earnings from fish exports increased to $227m(about sh849.4b) , up from $215m(about sh804.5b) in 2018.