Muntu pledges boats and nets to boost livelihoods in fishing areas

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The Alliance for National Transformation (ANT) presidential candidate Maj. Gen. (rtd) Mugisha Muntu has pledged to empower fishing communities across Uganda with standard boats and fishing nets, to boost their income and transform the fisheries sector.

Muntu's proposal includes training programs for fishermen, focusing on modern fishing techniques, agriculture post-harvest handling, and value addition.

Muntu interacting with voters. (Credit: Isaac Nuwagaba)

Muntu during his campaign. (Credit: Isaac Nuwagaba)

“We will ensure that our fishermen have access to quality boats and nets, enabling them to catch more fish and improve their living standards,” Muntu said on Wednesday (Dec. 3) while addressing voters at Laropi Ferry Landing Site in Adjumani district.

Voters waving during Muntu's election campaign. (Credit: Isaac Nuwagaba)

Uganda's fishing industry is a significant contributor to the country's economy, with Lake Victoria being one of the largest freshwater lakes in Africa.

However, many fishing communities still face challenges, including outdated equipment, limited access to markets, and unsustainable fishing practices.

Muntu's pledge to align his government with sustainable fishing practices and community involvement in management seeks to empower citizens to regain control of their natural resources, given to them by God.

“Empowering fishing communities with modern equipment and training is crucial for the long-term sustainability of Uganda's fisheries. After handling that, we shall construct a bridge connecting Adjumani district to Moyo district to compensate for the time lost when the ferry is down,” insisted Muntu.

(Credit: Isaac Nuwagaba)

(Credit: Isaac Nuwagaba)

Muntu added that his initiative also targets women and youth, promoting their involvement in fisheries management and entrepreneurship. “Women play a vital role in fisheries, and we must support their economic empowerment," Muntu emphasised.

The expulsion of many of the fishing communities from the lake in preference for cage fish farming, as well as the use of large boats without any complementary support to the local traditional fish mongers and traders to transition into the new structure or get alternatives created a lot of disharmony and disenfranchisement.

“This has not only undermined inclusive growth but also local content, as most of the ingredients are being imported,” Muntu noted.

The ANT government, he adds, will build the capacity of local communities, enhance partnerships with the private sector to increase the supply of locally manufactured inputs, and boost production with a local impact.

Muntu is hopeful that this initiative will reduce the import bill and create jobs in both industry and agriculture while changing the situation of the current fish factories that are mostly engaged in low-level primary processing for preservation.

Muntu to drive away UPDF from  water bodies

Muntu pledged to remove the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) from the fishing business, citing concerns over military involvement in civilian economic activities.

“We will drive UPDF away from the fishing business," Muntu declared during a campaign rally. "The military should focus on national security, not fishing. We need to ensure our fishermen operate freely, without interference."

Muntu's statement comes amid controversy over UPDF's involvement in the fishing industry, particularly on Lake Victoria. Muntu argues that the military's presence creates unfair competition and intimidates local fishermen.

The UPDF's involvement in fishing dates back to 2004, when they were mandated to curb smuggling and enforce fishing regulations. However, allegations of military brutality and extortion have persisted.

Muntu's proposal sparked debate, with some arguing the military's presence maintains order, while others see it as an opportunity for economic empowerment.

“UPDF's involvement undermines local fishermen's livelihoods," said James Drijaru, a local fisherman. “We welcome Muntu's pledge; we need fair competition.”

The fishing industry is a significant contributor to Uganda's economy, employing millions. However, challenges persist, including overfishing, poor infrastructure, and limited access to markets.

Muntu's plan includes establishing a special fund for fishermen, providing financial support for equipment and infrastructure development. He also pledged to prioritise value addition, promoting local processing and export of fish products.

“We will ensure our fishermen get fair prices for their catch," Muntu said. "We will support value addition, creating jobs and increasing revenue."