Protect Uganda's Cranes & Restore Wetland Habitat

Strengthening Community Fisheries Management in Buliisa

Dear Donor,

Fishing is an important source of food and income for many households around Uganda's lakes. Protecting fish stocks and aquatic ecosystems is therefore essential to the long-term wellbeing of fishing communities.

With support from the Ecosystems Alliance Project, Uganda Wildlife Society has supported nine Beach Management Units in Buliisa: Kabolwa, Karakaba, Bugoigo, Piida A, Piida B, Walukuba, Nyamukunta, Wasenko, and Kalolo.

Each participating unit received fishing equipment consisting of 51 pieces of legal fishing nets and 20 spools, as part of efforts to encourage responsible fishing practices and strengthen community fisheries management.

Access to appropriate fishing equipment can support fishers in complying with applicable regulations, provided the gear meets the relevant legal specifications and is used responsibly. This is important because prohibited fishing methods can damage aquatic habitats, threaten juvenile fish, and undermine the sustainability of fisheries.

Community-based structures such as Beach Management Units also provide an important platform for communicating fisheries regulations, encouraging responsible behavior, and working with authorities to address unsustainable practices.

We recognize that sustainable fisheries require continued awareness, monitoring, cooperation, and compliance with fisheries laws. Supporting fishing communities with appropriate resources is one component of this broader effort.

We sincerely thank the Ecosystems Alliance Project and the participating Beach Management Units for their commitment to responsible fisheries management.

Healthy aquatic ecosystems support healthy communities. Together, we are working toward sustainable fisheries and more secure livelihoods for future generations.