Mukono District Launches Formation of New Fisheries Committees

Mukono District Local Government has officially launched the formation of new Fisheries Management Committees in a move aimed at restoring order, transparency, and sustainability in the fisheries sector.

The exercise, coordinated by the Production Department, follows a presidential directive to reconstitute committees after the suspension of previous structures over allegations of mismanagement and irregularities.

The engagement, held at the Chief Administrative Officer’s boardroom, brought together key stakeholders, including Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Stephen Muhumuza, who represented CAO Henry Ddamba. Fisheries officers from various sub-counties, technical staff, and political leaders such as Afende Nathan Wampi, representing District Chairperson Peter Bakaluba Mukasa, also attended.

Chairing the meeting, Henry Ndidde emphasized that the reconstitution process is guided by a directive requiring that all committee members be drawn strictly from indigenous fishing communities. He noted that this approach is intended to strengthen accountability and ensure that those directly dependent on fisheries resources take a leading role in their management.

Senior Fisheries Officer Namaganda Ruth underscored the need for integrity, professionalism, and transparency throughout the selection process. She highlighted the importance of Lake Victoria as a key resource supporting livelihoods, food security, and the local economy, while noting ongoing challenges such as illegal fishing, weak enforcement, and the effects of climate change.

She explained that the new committees will operate at three levels—landing site, sub-county, and district—to enhance coordination and effective management of fisheries resources.

In his remarks, Mr. Muhumuza called for patriotism and collective responsibility in protecting fisheries resources, describing them as a vital national asset. He stressed the importance of fairness, particularly for indigenous communities, and reiterated that no individual should own more than ten fishing boats at any landing site to promote equitable access to opportunities.

He further directed local administrators to conduct sensitization meetings at sub-county level in collaboration with technical teams and community leaders to ensure full understanding and compliance with the new guidelines.

On behalf of the District Chairperson, Hon. Wampi urged stakeholders to prioritize service delivery over personal interests and to implement the directives without delay. He called for unity and professionalism, emphasizing the need to set aside political differences in order to improve livelihoods within fishing communities.

According to the guidelines, eligible committee members must be at least 18 years old, belong to indigenous fishing communities, possess good character, and have no criminal record. They must also not have previously served on fisheries committees or hold political office.

Sub-counties have been tasked to carry out sensitization ahead of the selection process, which is expected to commence in the coming days. The guidelines also prohibit fishing in breeding zones and call for strict adherence to sustainable fishing practices. Mukono District has 48 gazetted landing sites where the committees will be established.

The formation of the new Fisheries Management Committees marks a significant step toward restoring integrity, sustainability, and effective governance in Mukono’s fisheries sector. If implemented with commitment and accountability, the reforms are expected to address past challenges, protect aquatic resources, and improve livelihoods while promoting equitable access and long-term environmental sustainability.