LUWEMBA
Fish vendors in Busega Market have been warned to obtain digital licenses and stop dealing in immature fish or risk arres.
The UPDF 155 Marine Battalion issued the warning during a compliance operation at the market on Wednesday, 2nd September.
The operation, which followed a similar raid at Wandegaya Market, saw officials seize several tons of undersized fish after inspection.
Sensitisation first, Enforcement Second
The Commander of the operation, Capt. Muzamiru Gimogoyi, said the army is prioritizing sensitization over punishment.
He said many traders were found without mandatory documents, including the fish movement permit, fish transport license and fish traders’ license.
“We have told them about the fish movement permit and the fish traders’ license, which most of them don’t have. When we got those with the right sizes of fish but don’t have the licenses today, we have warned them and let them move with their fish,” Gimogoyi explained.
“So basically, the operation has moved on well. The traders have been cooperative.”
He reminded traders that the legal size for Tilapia is 11 inches and for Nile Perch is 20 inches.
“Lakes belong to Ugandans; this is our resource, and they employ a lot of Ugandans. Catching immature fish prevents them from reproducing,” he warned.
Fisheries official Edrisa Matovu said all players in the value chain fishers, transporters and traders- must be licensed and use approved fishing methods.
He said digital licenses will help the government track fish from the lake to the market and curb illegal fishing.
Vendors Call for Compliance to Boost Stocks and Lower Prices
Fish vendor Asuman Ssendijja encouraged fellow citizens to follow fisheries regulations, saying compliance will lead to an increase in both the quantity and quality of fish, hence lowering the price.
“If we all stop catching and selling immature fish, the fish will be able to reproduce and grow. We shall have more fish of good quality in the market, and the price will come down for everyone,” Ssendijja said.
Vendors Ask Museveni to Fulfil SACCO Pledge
Meanwhile, the leadership of Busega fish vendors used the engagement to remind President Museveni of his pledge to their SACCOs last year.
Jimmy Kawuma, Chairperson of the Fish Vendors Department in Busega Market, said vendors are willing to comply but need government support to formalise their businesses.
He urged his colleagues to follow the rules as enforcement tightens.
On behalf of the UPDF 155 Marine Battalion, Capt. Muzamiru Gimogoyi said operations will continue in markets across Kampala and other districts.
