By KT Reporter
The Fisheries Protection Unit (FPU) has called on fishermen to renew or pay their annual operational licenses or face eviction from the business. Registration of boats and fishers is part of a larger effort to regulate fishing activities on Uganda’s water bodies.
Lt. Col. Mercy Tukahurwa, the FPU Commander, stated that despite previous warnings, many fishermen continue to operate without valid licenses. She added that those failing to meet their obligations will be banned from accessing water bodies.
“We will not allow individuals to operate on the water without a valid license,” Tukahurwa emphasized, adding that the operations will also target fishmongers and transporters found without valid permits.
Maj. Frank Kanzira, the FPU Operations Commander, warned that those without valid licenses will not be allowed to continue fishing, and any fish caught without a license will be impounded. He urged fishermen to always carry their licenses as required by law.
Muhidno Padi, the Fisheries Officer in charge of Lake Katwe, advised all sector players to acquire the necessary licenses and noted that fishermen who have paid for their licenses but have not received them should carry photocopies of their payment receipts as proof.
Vessels operating on major lakes, such as Lake Edward, are required to pay a Shs 100,000 license fee. Fish trucks carrying less than five tonnes must pay Shs 250,000, while trucks carrying between five to 10 tonnes are charged Shs 750,000-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
