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The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries in Uganda is drafting a comprehensive policy to sustainably manage the Small Pelagic Species fishery, including mukene, which has been integral to the country’s fishing industry for over 50 years.

The Small Pelagic Species fishery, including mukene, has been a significant aspect of Uganda’s fishing industry for over 50 years, initially introduced to Lake Victoria in the 1970s from Lake Tanganyika. Now, the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries are taking steps to ensure the sustainable management of this vital resource by drafting a comprehensive policy.

Developed by the National Fisheries Resources Research Institute (NaFRRI), the policy aims to provide guidelines for effectively managing the fishing of small pelagic species across Uganda’s lakes. These small fish, typically measuring between 10 and 100 millimetres in length, constitute a substantial portion of the total fish catch in lakes Victoria, Albert, and Kyoga.

According to Mr. Herbert Nakiyende, a researcher at NaFRRI, the policy addresses crucial aspects such as appropriate harvesting technologies and regulations to minimize conflicts among fishers targeting different fish species. It will specify the types and sizes of nets to be used, as well as regulations regarding the use of light for fishing activities.

Regulation is essential for ensuring the sustainable harvesting of small fish while promoting coexistence among fishers targeting larger species like the Nile Perch. NaFRRI emphasizes the economic significance of these small fish, which contribute significantly to the national economy, employing over 60 percent of the fishing community and supporting the animal feed industry.

On Lake Victoria alone, an estimated 300 to 400 tonnes of mukene are caught annually, while Lake Albert yields around 200,000 tonnes of ragoogi. However, challenges such as post-harvest losses due to inadequate processing facilities need to be addressed. The policy proposes solutions to minimize wastage and ensure the sustainability of fish stocks.

One innovative proposal within the policy is the implementation of resting periods for the lakes, allowing fish stocks to replenish and reproduce. This involves allowing fishers to operate for a limited time, followed by periods of rest to coincide with the darker phases of the moon, reducing conflicts among fishers and giving the fish population time to recover.

Moreover, research conducted by NaFRRI and the Uganda National Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Alliance (UNREEEA) has demonstrated the viability of using solar lights for night fishing. Solar lights offer a cleaner and more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional kerosene lamps, addressing concerns about facilitating the capture of immature fish.

Ms. Hellen Adoa, the state minister for Fisheries, highlights the importance of making solar lights more accessible to fishermen by addressing their affordability. Ensuring widespread access to solar lighting will not only promote sustainable fishing practices but also contribute to environmental conservation efforts in Uganda’s lakeshores.