The Commander of the UPDF Marine Brigade, Michael Nyarwa, has called for stronger coordination and collaboration among agencies operating on Uganda’s water bodies, saying unified fisheries enforcement efforts are essential in reviving the fishing industry, protecting fish resources, and supporting national economic growth.
Brig Gen Nyarwa made the remarks while officiating at the pass-out ceremony of 56 personnel who completed a three-month orientation course in fisheries enforcement law at the Marine Training School in Kalangalo.
The training was conducted by the UPDF in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries to strengthen fisheries enforcement operations on Uganda’s lakes and support the recovery and protection of fish stocks.
The course follows the recent reorganisation that returned the former Fisheries Protection Unit to the UPDF Marine Brigade as part of broader efforts aimed at boosting fish production and supporting economic growth.
Drawing on the African proverb, “When spiderwebs unite, they can tie a lion,” Brig Gen Nyarwa emphasized the growing need for tighter coordination among agencies involved in safeguarding Uganda’s aquatic resources.
“The ultimate objective of this mission is to focus on reviving the fishing industry, generating government revenue, and creating employment opportunities that can sustainably support the national economy,” he said.
Brig Gen Nyarwa urged the officers to uphold discipline, teamwork, and strict adherence to standard operating procedures while carrying out fisheries enforcement operations.
He thanked Yoweri Museveni for providing strategic guidance in safeguarding Uganda’s fish resources.
The Marine Brigade Commander also appreciated the Chief of Defence Forces and Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Operations, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for fostering what he described as a constructive command climate within the UPDF.
He further commended the Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, Sam Okiding, and the Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security, Richard Otto, for establishing fisheries management committees aimed at strengthening enforcement and fisheries management operations.
Major General Otto also thanked the Chief of Joint Staff, Jack Bakasumba, together with Joint Staff heads, for their continued support toward fisheries enforcement activities.
Representing the Commissioner for Fisheries Regulation, Control and Quality Assurance at MAAIF, Alfred Akankwasta called upon the officers to apply the skills and knowledge acquired during the training to safeguard aquatic life and improve fish production in the country.
Akankwasta expressed concern over the declining number of fish processing factories, noting that only four factories remain operational due to shortages of raw materials caused by declining fish stocks and illegal fishing practices.
He stressed the need for stronger protection and sustainable management of fish resources to support the regeneration and recovery of the fishing industry.
The Commandant of the Marine Training School, David Kararira, said the trainees had been adequately equipped with the knowledge and skills required to effectively execute their responsibilities during fisheries enforcement operations.
Col Kararira, however, reminded the personnel to remain disciplined at all times, noting that they carry the responsibility of representing the country in the course of their duties.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Commander of the 155 Battalion, Joseph Ssebukera, assured the chief guest that the personnel had been thoroughly oriented and were prepared to execute their duties in line with the mission objectives.
“All efforts must remain focused on achieving the intended operational goals,” he said.
The pass-out ceremony attracted senior staff officers, fisheries sector officials, and local council and community leaders from Nakasozi Village, reflecting broad institutional and grassroots support for fisheries protection and enforcement efforts in Uganda.