Department of Fisheries and Water Resource Management

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Sh16b project to protect L. Victoria launched
(New Vision, 2017-12-05) Nantambi, Agnes
A sh16b project, aimed at reducing pollution on Lake Victoria has been launched. The Buwama-Kayabwe water supply and sanitation project, implemented under the Regional Lake Victoria Water and Sanitation Project (LVWATSAN) will increase water supply, promote hygiene and sanitation, protect catchments, manage faecal sludge and solid waste systems.
Kamwenge faces acute water crisis
(New Vision, 2017-06-27) Asiimwe, Wilson
A prolonged dry spell in Kamwenge district has left thousands of people without water because the sources are drying up. Kamwenge has not received any significant rainfall since February this year.
Local leaders welcome sh213b water project
(New Vision, 2017-01-12) Agaba, Vivian; Nahabwe, Saphira
Local leaders have vowed to convince their communities not to ask for compensation from government for land where the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) plans to implement a new project to increase access to safe water. NWSC's new Service Coverage Acceleration Project (SCAP100) will involve the construction of cost-effective safe water supply schemes to supply water to more 12,000 villages across the country and ensure 100% system functionality.
Ntende goes fishing in his backyard.
(Saturday Vision, 2017-08-05) Wandawa, Vickie
What do you do when the cost of your favorite health meals soars and you have to fork out more and more money? You grow it, eat and sell the surplus to your neighbours. Thirty-four-year-old John Ntende, an engineer working with Electricity Regulatory Authority,
Clean water at last for Masindi
(New Vision, 2017-01-04) Wetaya, Richard
Walking long distances to fetch water for home use is a common practice in many Ugandan villages. Isimba Kihanga, a village in Masindi district, it is no different residents have to walk long distances to get water.
Firm stocks 25 crater lakes in Kabarole.
(Daily Monitor, 2017-01-19) Tusiime, Francis
In a bid to promote the fishing industry, a private company, Ferdsult, has stocked 10 million fishlings in creator lakes in Kabarole district.
Water crisis hits Mbale
(New Vision, 2017-01-09) Watala, Paul
A water crisis has hit Mbale municipality due to a reduction in water levels of River Manafwa. David Opoka, the Mbale station manager for NWSC, said they are facing a challenge of pumping enough water at the largest plant at River Manafwa in Busiu.
Fishermen resort to killing to make bait for fish
(New Vision, 2017-02-13) Kwesiga, Pascal
When Samuel Amandra arrived in Kayago fishing village, Amolatat district about a year ago, he expected his life to improve. For a few months, he fetched water from Lake Kyoga and vended it in the villages of Amolatat.
The Impact Of Fish Production On Rural Livelihoods In Ngetta Subcounty, Lira District
(BUSITEMA UNIVERSITY, 2025) AKAO WINIFRED
Fish is a vital source of high-quality protein and essential micronutrients, yet its consumption remains low in many rural Ugandan communities, including Laguti Subcounty in Pader District. This study assessed fish consumption patterns and examined the socio-economic, cultural, and infrastructural factors influencing dietary choices among households. Despite proximity to water bodies such as River Aswa, fish remains underutilized in local diets in Laguti Sub County, raising concerns about nutrition and food security. Using a cross-sectional design, data were collected from 80 respondents through structured questionnaires and interviews with household heads, fish vendors, and local leaders. The findings revealed that weekly fish consumption was most common (37.5%), followed by monthly (25%) and rare consumption (18.8%). Only 12.5% of households consumed fish daily, while 6.2% never consumed it. Income level, fish price, market access, and education were significant determinants of consumption. Medium-income households showed higher consumption rates, while affordability challenges limited access for low-income earners. Cultural perception also influenced consumption patterns. While 62.5% of respondents reported no cultural restrictions, 25% acknowledged taboos or perceptions that discouraged fish consumption. Species such as catfish and silver cyprinid (Rastrineobola argentea) were sometimes avoided due to associations with poverty or perceived uncleanliness. However, 87.5% of respondents viewed fish as a healthy food choice, citing benefits such as improved brain function and boosted immunity. Barriers to fish access and consumption included high cost (50%), limited availability (25%), poor transport infrastructure (12.5%), and lack of storage facilities (6.2%). Although Laguti Sub County is geographically close to water bodies, infrastructural challenges and seasonal supply fluctuations constrained access. The absence of cold storage and poor road networks further limited distribution and preservation. Encouragingly, 81.3% of respondents believed that government or community programs could improve fish availability. Suggested interventions included subsidizing fish prices, establishing more local fish markets, improving transport infrastructure, and promoting nutrition education. The study concluded that enhancing market access, supporting local aquaculture, and addressing socio-cultural perceptions could significantly increase fish consumption and improve household nutrition and food security in Laguti Sub County.
IMPACT OF CLIMATE VARIABILITY ON MILLET PRODUCTION IN PALLISA DISTRICT, EASTERN UGANDA
(BUSITEMA UNIVERSITY, 2025) ORIADA OSEKU MATHIAS
Climate variability has posed serious threats to millet production in Pallisa district, yet the crop is vital in contributing to household income and food security. The study examined the impact of climate variability on millet production in Pallisa District. Specifically, the study: analyzed rainfall, temperature and millet production trends; assessed the effect of climatic factors on millet production; and examined the adaptation measures taken by millet farmers. The study used a descriptive research design. Secondary and primary data were used, in that secondary data informed primary data collection. Data on 30 years’ trend in rainfall and temperature were obtained from Uganda National Meteorological Authority (UNMA), while data on the 10 years’ trend in millet production from Census data and Annual Agricultural Survey (AAS). Simple random sampling was used to collect primary data from 365 households using a structured questionnaire. Analysis was done in SPSS version 20. Findings indicate that in the period 1991 to 2021, low rainfall was received while the years; 1993, 2000, 2016, with 2000 experienced the least rainfall. In contrast, the year 1996 there was a lot of rain experienced. Maximum temperatures were experienced in 2000 and 2016. Furthermore, during this period the first season yields were higher than those of the second seasons. Climate variability had resulted in premature drying of crops, reduction in yield per acre, shift in planting and harvesting time, losses due to hailstorms, and increased pests. All the interviewed farmers were adapting to climate variability by utilising native species perceived to be resistant varieties, adjusting the sowing dates, diversification, and intercropping. Government and other stakeholders should consider investing in research and development to come up with highly yielding and resistant varieties, encouraging diversification, and development of irrigation schemes for sustained production and livelihood.
Assessing The Socio-Economic Impacts Of Pond Fish Farming On Local Communities In Tororo District, Uganda
(Busitema University, 2025) Zinunula Joel
This study assessed the socio-economic impact of pond fish farming in Tororo district. It evaluated the current status, the socio-economic effects of pond fish farming on local communities and suggesting strategies for enhancing the sustainability of pond fish farming in Tororo District, Eastern Uganda. The study used a descriptive design, and a mixture of quantitative and qualitative approaches,data was collected from 97 pond fish farmers using structured questionnaire, interview guides for technical persons and three focus group discussions, and field observations. The data was coded and entered in Microsoft Excel version 18, then imported into Statistical Programme for Social Scientists (SPSS) version 21 for descriptive and inferential statistics. The descriptive statistics analysis was summarized using frequencies, tables and pie charts. The inferential statistics was summarized using pearson chi-square test at 5 percent confidence interval.The findings indicated that pond fish farming is predominantly practiced by smallholder farmers with limited resources, but it has a positive impact on livelihoods, particularly in employment creation, food security, and income generation. Despite these benefits, farmers face major challenges such as high input costs, water scarcity, inadequate access to quality feeds and fingerlings, and limited knowledge of existing policies and bylaws. The majority of respondents reported slight improvements in their standards of living and expressed a willingness to join farmer cooperatives for shared growth. Support from local governments, MAAIF, and NGOs exists but remains insufficient. The analysis of these challenges using the chi square test indicated that high cost of inputs, water scarcity and low fish prices were statistically significant at a =0.05. Furthermore, the chi square test indicated that sources of support to pond fish farming namely local government, and MAAIF were statistically significant at a =0.05. Also, the strategies for support were subjected to the chi square test and fish feeds and fingerlings were the most significant at a =0.05. In-addition, funding and incentives including credit, subsidies, and grants and training in technical skills such as feed formulation and water management were statistically significant at a =0.05.The study concluded that with targeted institutional support, legal literacy, and infrastructure investment, pond fish farming in Tororo can significantly contribute to rural development and food systems resilience. Key strategies proposed to enhance sustainability included increasing access to credit, subsidizing inputs, strengthening extension services, promoting legal awareness, and improving market access.
Dry spell hits Pallisa hard
(New Vision, 2017-01-09) Okwakol, Lawrence
In addition to food shortage, Pallisa is now facing a shortage of safe water for its 350,000 residents. According to David Kawooya, the chief administrative officer, Pallisa at 45%, is below the national water coverage against the national target of 67%.
Police impound 15 sacks of immature fish
(New Vision, 2017-07-05) Atuzazirwe, Kate; Manishimwe, Wilson
The Police in Kisoro have impounded 15 sacks of immature tilapia fish. The fish was intercepted at Kisoro Hill village in Kisoro municipality with a fishmonger identified as Sauda Kamana. Illegal fishing on Ugandan lakes has led to a reduction in fish stocks on Ugandan laked. Categories such as tilapia, Nile perch and silver fish have been drastically affected.
River Cheptui bridge caves in.
(New Vision, 2017-07-21) Edyegu, Daniel
Cheptui bridge located along Muyembe-Nakapiripiriti Highway has caved in. The works ministry built a narrow concrete bridge which stretches river cheptui as a temporary diversion after floods destroyed main bridge along the highway in 2007.
Evaluating The Impact Of Pond Management Practices On Fish Productivity In Luwero District
(Busitema University, 2025) Nabirye Joyce
Pond management practices are among the key factors influencing aquaculture production in Uganda. As aquaculture continues to play a vital role in food security and income generation, understanding effective pond management strategies is essential. This study evaluated the impact of pond management practices on fish productivity in Luwero District. The specific objectives were to determine the gender involvement aspects within pond fish production system in Luwero District, to identify major pond management practices carried out by pond fish farmers in Luwero district, and to determine the relationship between the fish pond management practices used by farmers and fish productivity. Data collection took place in the entire sub counties of Luwero district although it was limited by a number of farmers who dropped off from the business due to limited capital, insecurity and lack of land. Quantitative analysis was using SPSS IBM version 26 and the average of water quality parameters (Ph, temperature and DO) was got. SPSS was also used to obtain gender involvement in pond fish farming and the relationship between pond management practices and productivity in terms of number of fish at harvest through descriptive analysis and running a Pearson correlation coefficient respectively and the total yields were determined using excel. From the findings, pond fish production in Luwero district is mostly practiced by men who cover 87.1% and 12.9% for women. The pond management practices carried out by pond fish farmers are feeding, stocking, water quality management, predator control and findings show that 25.8% of the fish farmers in Luwero district practice the required or proper pond management practices which improved their yield. The findings also show that there was a high positive correlation between the pond management practices and the number of fish at harvest (P-value =0.014). Conclusions were made that gender aspects should be emphasized, pond management practices should be periodized and recommended that further studies should be done to address gender equity and equality in enterprises and also extension work and motivation should be done for fish farmers to remain focused for improved production.
Assessing The Potential Of Environmental And Social Economic Effects Of Aqua Agro Ecology, Case Of Kaptoyoy, Sub County, Kween District.
(Busitema University, 2025) Cheprot, Amos.
Aqua Agro ecology is an innovation that combines aquatic farming with terrestrial agriculture,promoting sustainable and resource efficiency. Integrated Aquaculture Agriculture (IAA), have been promoted as a solution to reduce water pollution, enhance biodiversity, and optimize nutrient cycling . productivity Farmers in Kween district were unaware of the environmental and economic benefits of choosing to rear specific livestock together with fish farming and cultivation of food and cash crops in their land, and livestock together with fish farming in their land. This study can help the local communities of Kween district to adopt aqua Agro ecology to overcome challenges of poverty, malnutrition for both present and future generation. The general Objective of study was to assess the environmental and socio-economic effects of aqua agroecology on farmers of Kween district. The specific objectives wereas to assess the environmental contribution of integrating crops and livestock with fish farming on the same piece of identify solutions to the challenges faced by farmers in adopting aqua Agro ecological practices, and to measure the income contribution of current aqua Agro ecological practices to the standards of living of local farmers in Kaptoyoy Sub County, Kween District. Data was analysed using the Histograms and pie charts to compare the environmental contribution of integrating crops and livestock with fish farming on the sam piece of land, to compare solutions to the challenges faced by farmers in adopting aqua agro ecological practices among adopters of aqua agro ecology and non adopters of aqua agro ecology and to compare the contribution of current aqua agro ecological practices to the standard of living of local farmers among the adopters of aqua agro ecology and non adopters of aqua agro ecology. It was found that the farmers who adopted this integrated approach tended to diversify their crop choices, favouring crops like Irish potatoes They also integrated livestock effectively, particularly goats. Challenges among adopters of aqua Agro ecology and non adopters of aqua agro ecology were market access and limited capital. Costly fish feed, while non-adopters struggled more with water scarcity, to address these challenges, adopters prioritized constructing reservoirs. Adopters reportedimprovements in their living conditions, not only through income but also via food security and risk reduction. .
Assessing The Effectiveness Of Gear Restriction On Nile Tilapia Fishery At Kazinga Channel, Rubirizi District.
(Busitema University, 2025) Arinaitwe, Erisa
This study assessed the effectiveness of gear restrictions in sustaining Nile Tilapia populations in Kazinga Channel Katunguru Sub-County, Rubirizi District. Its aimed to evaluate fishers’compliance with gear restriction policies, their perceptions of the regulations, the impact of these restrictions on fish catch and stock abundance, and the socio-economic consequences for local communities. Data collection involved field surveys, fisher interviews, and participatory focus group discussions. Emphasis was placed on examining the changes in fish stock size structure and abundance following the implementation of mesh size controls, as well as investigating the compliance levels and enforcement challenges faced by regulatory authorities. The findings revealed that enforcement of minimum mesh size restrictions led to a reduction in the capture of juvenile Nile tilapia, allowing fish to mature and spawn at least once before harvest. This possibly contributed to improved recruitment rates and a positive shift in the size structure of the fish population, consistent with observations in other freshwater fisheries across East Africa. The catch composition shifted towards larger, more marketable fish, which indicated a move towards ecological sustainability and a potential increase in long-term fishery yields. However, the study also documented short-term economic hardships experienced by fishers as a result of reduced catches of smaller fish, which historically contributed to household food security and income. These immediate livelihood impacts generated resistance to gear restrictions among some fishers, highlighting the social challenges inherent in fisheries management. Enforcement of gear restrictions was found to be hampered by several factors including weak institutional capacity, limited resources for monitoring and surveillance, and widespread use of illegal fishing gears such as undersized monofilament nets. Beach Management Units (BMUs), intended to facilitate community-led resource governance, exhibited varying degrees of effectiveness, often impaired by a lack of legal support and inadequate community participation. The study underscored that enforcement alone was insufficient without concomitant efforts to address poverty and improve fisher livelihoods.
An Assessment Of The Impacts Of Sand Mining And Increased Silting Levels On The Fish Species Composition And Abundance Along The River Nile, Namasagali Catchment Area, Kamuli District.
(Busitema University, 2025) Businge Anatori.
Sand mining is a widespread practice in Uganda, posing significant environmental challenges to freshwater ecosystems, including habitat destruction, water pollution, and a loss of biodiversity. The Namasagali catchment area, a sub-basin of the Victoria Nile River, is one of the affected regions, with sand mining activities threatening the livelihoods of local communities dependent on fishing. This study investigated the impacts of sand mining on fish species composition, abundance, and catch rates within this area. Specific objectives included: (1) to determine the changes in riverbed substrate composition due to sand mining; (2) to assess the impacts of sand mining on fish species composition and abundance; and (3) to evaluate the effects of sand mining on fish catches and catch rates from the perspective of local fishers. A retrospective experimental approach with control sites was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative data. Riverbed grab samples were visually analyzed, and fish populati ons were assessed using standard gill nets and longlines. Demographic and catch-rate data were collected through a questionnaire administered to local fishers. The results showed that sand mining has fundamentally altered the physical composition of the riverbed, creating a new, coarse-grained substrate of sand and gravel with a notable absence of shells, in contrast to the natural fine and silty offshore sediments. Fish species diversity across the sites was composed of six species, with the Lake Victoria squeaker (Synodontis victoriae) being the most dominant. A one-way ANOVA analysis revealed significant inter-site variability in fish catches (F(3,10) =7.92, p<0.05), with the active mining site, Kalama, exhibiting the highest total catch. This counterintuitive finding is attributed to the temporary exposure of food particles caused by the mining process, which acts as a localized fish attractant. However, a paired -samples t-test on fisher-reported data indicated a highly significant decline in average dai ly catches from a historical average of 19.0 to a current average of 9.7 individuals (t(29)x =9.00, p<0.0001). While sand mining can create temporary, localized feeding grounds for fish, its broader impact is a significant alteration of the riverbed ecosystem and a substantial adverse effect on the overall catch rates and livelihoods of the fishing community. The findings underscore the need for effective management strategies to mitigate these impacts.
Assessment Of Fish Handling Practices In Iganga Fish Market And Their Perceived Impacts On Fresh Fish Quality.
(Busitema University, 2025) Mukisa Araphat
This study assessed fish handling practices and their impacts on fish quality in Iganga fish market, Uganda, with the general objective of evaluating past practices and their effects on fish quality and safety. Specific objectives included identifying fish handling practices employed, evaluating their impact on fish quality and freshness with a focus on spoilage rates and hygiene risks, and assessing vendors' knowledge and awareness of proper handling, storage, and hygiene practices. A cross-sectional descriptive design was used. Data was collected through questionnaires and observations using 100 fish vendors in Iganga fish market. Fish preservation primarily involved salting (46%) or insulated containers with ice (37%). Storage of fresh fish was predominantly under ice (48%) or refrigeration (26%). 84% display fish on tables. 72% practice fish scaling before sales; use of clean tap water (52%) is commonly used. However, 80% reported frequent spoilage, primarily attributed to high temperatures (36%) and inadequate facilities (31%), with bad odor (64%) as the dominant spoilage indicator. Hygiene practices focused on facility cleaning (75%), but only 69% of vendors had received training, mostly from government agencies (56%). Key challenges included limited refrigeration (36%) and lack of training (32%). Respondents (52%) suggested improved hygiene to enhance fish quality, with 89% expressing willingness to participate in training programs. The study recommended targeted training, improved infrastructure, and stricter hygiene regulations to reduce spoilage and ensure consumer safety.
Assessing The Implications Of Fishing Techniques On The Fish Population On Lake Victoria In Jinja City, Uganda
(Busitema University, 2025) Obote, Amos
This study examined the implications of fishing techniques on sustainable fisheries in Lake Victoria, Jinja City, Uganda, to provide relevant stakeholders with information to promote sustainable fishing practice on Lake Victoria. The study used a descriptive cross-sectional design with quantitative method of data collected. The study was conducted among 79 fishers selected using systematic random sampling technique and quantitative data was collected from them using pretested interviewer- administered questionnaire developed on kobo-collect toolbox. The collected data was downloaded into excel format and imported to Stata 15 for analyses. Descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviations, and percentages were used to describe the study findings. Findings showed that the primary factors influencing fishing methods were regulatory guidelines (45.6%) and existing fishing practices (30.4%). Awareness of illegal fishing was high (86.1%), with gill nets (59.5%) and longlines (29.1%) cited as having the most negative impact on fish stocks when misused, and the Nile Tilapia (59.5%) identified as the most affected species. Awareness of sustainable fishing practices was also notable (64.6%), with selective fishing gear (56.9%) and catch limits (29.4%) being the most recognized strategies, and 55.7% of participants reporting active use of such methods, mainly selective gear and size limits. These results highlight the critical role of regulations, fishing practices, and knowledge in shaping sustainable fisheries management on Lake Victoria.

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