Under the warm African sun, Lake Victoria makes small waves. It’s the world’s second-largest freshwater lake. You can see local fishermen using their paddles in the lake. This scene is repeated across Uganda’s lakes and rivers, which is more than a pretty picture of rural life. It shows an industry which is Uganda’s fisheries, that powers the nation’s economy. 

Fishing in Uganda is not just a way to pass the time; it is a lifeline for thousands. For generations, the people of this country have fished its rich waters for food and income. As vital as this industry is to the country’s economy, questions about its longevity and profitability remain till today. 

Can the traditional practices handed down through generations stand against the modern challenges? Is the industry profitable enough to sustain today’s and future generations?

In this article, we will explore Uganda’s fisheries. Are they just surviving? Can they struggle among rising economic and environmental pressures? Join us as we explore Uganda’s challenging and unpredictable fishing industry.

Fishing contributes 2.6% to Uganda’s GDP and 12% to its agricultural GDP, second only to coffee. 

Lakes Victoria, Kyoga, Albert, Edward, and the Nile River are the main fishing hubs.

Overfishing and declining stocks are tackled through government policies and aquaculture investments.

A model farm using sustainable fish breeding and natural feeding for profitable aquaculture.

High demand, government support, and modern fish farming make Uganda’s fisheries a profitable sector.

Uganda’s water bodies are the backbone of its fishing industry. The lakes of Victoria, Kyoga, Albert, and Edward are more than just water. They are marketplaces, workplaces, and communities for those who depend on these lakes.

They are contributing highly to the nation’s economy and providing livelihoods for millions. The primary fishing grounds are Africa’s largest and most famous lakes and rivers. Each supports a wide range of fish species and fishing activities.

Lake Victoria: 

The Heart of Uganda’s Fishing Industry, Lake Victoria, is one of Africa’s largest lakes in Uganda. But also the most important fishing ground in Uganda. It supports many fish species, including the key Nile perch and tilapia. Fishing activities here are extensive, involving everything from artisanal to commercial operations. The lake’s expansive area allows for widespread fishing. This is central to the livelihoods of communities along its shores​​.

Other Major Lakes and Rivers:

Other important rivers include Lake Kyoga, Lake Albert, Lake Edward, and the River Nile. Lake Kyoga is known for its large fish populations. It plays an important role in the local fishing economy.

Lake Albert and Lake Edward, shared with neighbors, support fishing. This contributes to Uganda’s fish exports and domestic use.

The Nile River is at Murchison Falls. The river offers unique fishing experiences, often focused on sport fishing. The area is famous for its large Nile perch. It has tourism and fishing facilities that benefit local economies.

These unique fishing areas are central to Uganda’s economy. The areas provide food, employment, and income for countless Ugandans. Fish farming is vital to Uganda’s economy. It boosts food security and growth. This importance is highlighted by several factors. This includes job creation, poverty alleviation, and foreign exchange earnings.

The economic impact is also evident in the broader national framework. The fisheries sector in Uganda is a vital source of foreign exchange, second only to coffee. It contributes approximately 2.6% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and 12% to the agricultural GDP. This sector’s role in the economy shows the importance of fisheries.

There are a few challenges, like declining fish stocks and aquaculture practices. The government and various partners are actively promoting aquaculture to mitigate these issues. This includes investments in better fish farming technologies and infrastructure. For example, high-quality seed production and effective marketing strategies to support fish farmers​​.

Kaynela Farms, a family-owned farm in Kayunga. The firm has been in operation for over eight years. They are specializing in organic and sustainable farming practices. The farm is managed by Peace Kayesu, who serves as the Managing Director. Under her leadership, the farm has grown to include a diverse range of activities. For example, aquaculture, poultry, and the cultivation of fruits and vegetables.

On this farm, fish farming is done a little bit differently. It’s all for the good of getting something so natural and nutritious. The fish farm is unique to this establishment; it’s a great source of income. They have two species here, tilapia and catfish. Tilapia has more demand in the market, which is why they prefer it the most.

The farm is simply a breeding ground, and the fingerlings are then ferried to cages on Lake Victoria in Bu District. So you breed here, mostly breeding, and then transfer them immediately after a week or two, when they’ve been hatched and everything. They transport them to the main cage at the lake.

So they have a big farm and cages on the lake. Once they breed, they put them in polythene bags, designed for transporting them. After that, they put oxygen in them and transport them to the lake. It’s in Bu, Lake Victoria, in Tong Village, called Tongol. That is where the cages are, and that is where the growth takes place.

They have to go through the whole process with the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries. Once you get the license, then they’re good to go. It has to be renewed each year.

A Unique Approach To Aquaculture: by Kaynela Farm

Species Selection: They raise tilapia and catfish, chosen specifically for their market demand and suitability to local conditions.

Natural Feeding Practices: The fish are fed with natural ingredients like Aola and worms from Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae. This helps reduce feed costs and enhances the nutritional value of the fish. 

Kaynela Farms’ journey from a small start-up to successful aquaculture is truly inspiring. They protect the environment. Kaynela Farms remains an example of how business and ecology can grow together.

Investing in fish farming in Uganda presents many economic opportunities. The sector has rapid growth and contributes to the national economy. The aquaculture industry in Uganda is witnessing a huge annual growth rate. With projections suggesting that the country could produce up to 2,000,000 tonnes of fish.

Currently, fish farming contributes meaningfully to Uganda’s GDP. The sector is expanding as both a domestic food source and an export commodity. Moreover, the government of Uganda, along with international organizations like the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), is actively supporting the sector through various initiatives aimed at increasing productivity and sustainability​​.

There is an increasing demand for fresh fish in urban and peri-urban areas. For investors, this presents a compelling case for considering aquaculture. Especially in regions with high population density and relatively low wages.

One of the innovative approaches enhancing the fisheries sector’s contribution is cage fish farming. Studies have shown that cage fish farming helps to increase fish output and provide economic opportunities. This includes women, who have traditionally been underrepresented in this field. For instance, projects like the Women’s Economic Empowerment Programme have enabled women in the Bugiri District to engage in tilapia farming.

Supportive government policies and significant economic contributions make fish farming a promising investment in Uganda. These factors provide for both local and international investors.

As the sun dips below Lake Victoria, the future of Uganda’s fisheries sector seems as promising as the sunset’s glow. These communities stand on the brink of a transformative era in aquaculture.

The government and allies like the FAO are guiding the sector toward more profit. Here, every fisherman brings not just food to tables but also a promise of economic security.

But the journey is not without its challenges. As the sector expands, the balance between growth and sustainability becomes ever harder. Only the proper strategies with collaborative practices will define the future of fishing in Uganda.

We can almost hear the whisper of the waves telling tales of a future where Uganda’s fisheries grow.  With every fish caught, the promise of this industry becomes more hopeful for its people. And the hope is of ensuring the lifeline of Uganda’s economy.