Uganda Sets Ambitious Target to Revive the Fish Sector
Uganda is outlining a bold plan to revive its fish sector, with a goal of reaching 183,000 metric tonnes of fish by 2028. The strategy was unveiled during a high-level breakfast meeting organized by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives (MTIC) in partnership with the Uganda Fish Processors and Exporters Association (UFPEA). The gathering brought together policymakers, industry players, exporters, and development partners to map out practical steps to unlock the sector’s potential while addressing challenges from production to processing and export.
Context: Why Revitalizing the Sector Matters
The fisheries sector has long been a cornerstone of Uganda’s rural livelihoods and national economy. Fish provides a critical source of protein for households and a substantial share of rural incomes. In recent years, however, the sector has faced bottlenecks including aging fishing fleets, limited value addition, inefficiencies in processing, and fluctuating market access. The new initiative seeks to turn these realities around by aligning policy, private sector investment, and international trade opportunities.
A Coordinated Public-Private Approach
The MTIC and UFPEA are coordinating a multi-stakeholder effort to improve supply chains from capture to market. Key focus areas include modernizing fishing fleets, expanding hatchery and aquaculture capacity, and upgrading processing facilities to meet international quality standards. The plan also emphasizes better post-harvest handling, cold chain improvements, and enhanced compliance with sanitary and phytosanitary requirements to boost export competitiveness.
Investment in Processing and Value Addition
One of the pillars of the strategy is to promote value addition within Uganda. By moving up the value chain—from raw catches to ready-to-eat and processed products—the country can command higher prices in regional and global markets. Investments in smokehouses, filleting lines, canning, and frozen storage are expected to generate more jobs, raise productivity, and reduce post-harvest losses.
Market Access and Trade Promotion
Improving access to both regional markets and international buyers is central to the 2028 target. The government plans to expand participation in trade fairs, establish more export-ready clusters, and simplify certification processes to meet destination-country requirements. Strengthening partnerships with development partners could unlock financing for cold-chain infrastructure, fleet modernization, and market information systems that help fishers and processors connect with buyers.
Sustainable Practices and Community Benefits
Beyond growth metrics, the plan places significant emphasis on sustainability. Measures include responsible fishing practices, species diversification, and ecosystem-based management to ensure long-term yields. Training programs for fishers, processors, and smallholder producers aim to improve livelihoods and reduce vulnerability to climate-related risks. By stabilizing the sector, Uganda seeks to create resilient communities that rely on fisheries for steady income and nutrition.
What Success Looks Like by 2028
Reaching 183,000 metric tonnes would mark a substantial leap from current levels and would reflect enhanced production efficiency, stronger value chains, and robust export performance. Expected outcomes include increased employment across coastal and inland fishing communities, higher local investment in processing plants, and greater penetration into regional markets such as the East African Community and beyond.
Next Steps and Collaboration
Officials indicated that the initiative will roll out in phases, with pilot programs in priority districts designed to test new technologies and management approaches. Regular engagement with UFPEA members will ensure that policy reforms respond to practical needs in fishing communities. The collaboration also signals a shared commitment to auditable reporting, transparent governance, and measurable progress toward the 2028 target.
Conclusion
Uganda’s concerted effort to revive the fish sector demonstrates a clear understanding that growth, jobs, and improved nutrition are interconnected. By aligning public policy with private investment and international market access, the country aims to restore confidence in its fisheries and deliver tangible benefits to millions of Ugandans who rely on fish as a primary source of income and protein.
