The waters of Lake Victoria are a treasure trove of biodiversity and a lifeline for many communities. On September 27, 2024, stakeholders gathered for a crucial dialogue titled "Fisheries at the Crossroads: Unveiling the Myths and Realities for Sustainable Co-existence," where experts, government officials, and local fishers came together to tackle the pressing issues surrounding the country's multi-species fisheries.
The event, organized by the National Fisheries Resources Research Institute (NaFIRRI), FIAN Uganda and KWDT, highlighted the delicate balance between the ecological preservation of fisheries and the livelihoods of the communities that depend on them. With small pelagic species like Mukene becoming an increasingly dominant part of Uganda's fish catch, questions about sustainability, policy, and human rights came into sharp focus.
Why Fisheries Matter to Uganda
Uganda's fisheries are not just an economic powerhouse but a crucial pillar of food security and employment — especially for women and youth. Dr. Winnie Nkalubo, Director of Research at NaFIRRI, opened the event with a reminder that fisheries are Uganda's second-largest export earner after coffee, contributing 3% to the national GDP and 12% to the agricultural sector.
The health of this sector is vital, not only to the national economy but to millions of Ugandans who depend on fish for their daily sustenance.
The Silverfish Ban: Balancing Ecology and Livelihoods
One of the most debated issues was the ban on the "hurry-up" method used for silverfish catching — a directive from Uganda's Ministry of Fisheries intended to curb bycatch and overfishing. The ban was met with strong resistance from fishers who saw it as a direct threat to their livelihoods. Fishers were advised to use the "scoop net" method, yet this too faced criticism for being impractical in certain conditions.
"This method is associated with illegal fishing because it requires using smaller boats, which is illegal as the fisheries directives state we should only use the 28 ft. vessels!" — Christine, silverfish fisher and processor
Dr. Nkalubo and other experts pointed out the need for policies that do more than protect fish stocks — they must also safeguard the rights and livelihoods of fishers and processors. The economic potential of fisheries is immense, with annual production valued at over UGX 585 billion (approximately US$158 million), supporting artisanal fishers across Uganda's major lakes.
Women Bear the Heaviest Burden
The dialogue spotlighted the disproportionate impact that current fisheries regulations have had on women. Many women are processors and traders of small pelagic species, and with the ban on certain fishing methods, they have been left without livelihoods. This has led to rising poverty, increased school dropouts, and greater domestic instability in fishing communities.
"We can no longer afford to send our children to school because we are not working. The silver fish business was our primary source of income. There is also a rise in domestic violence, as men no longer contribute financially to their families!" — Teopista, fisherwoman from Nangoma Landing Site
A Call for Human Rights-Based Fisheries Policy
Prof. Christopher Mbazira argued that Uganda's policies must balance ecological concerns with the rights of those who rely on these resources for their survival. He emphasized that fishers should not be left behind in the quest for sustainability, as their economic access to fish is also a basic human right.
Participants called for the Ministry of Fisheries to lift the ban on silverfish operations under conditions that support both ecological sustainability and economic viability. There was also a strong call for better consultation with fishing communities before any further directives are imposed, ensuring future policies are based on scientific evidence and fishers' lived experiences.