September 6, 2004

Uganda's Fish Exports Grow By 26%

Uganda's fish exports recorded 14,665 tons in the first half of this year, up 26% from 11,603 tons exported the same time last year, according to statistics obtained from the fisheries department.

Receipts from exports during the period were $49.6 million compared to $45.5 million last year. The commissioner for fisheries, Dick Nyeko, said this year's outlook is better than last year, and he expected exports to reach $100 million.

Fish exports are bound to stabilise further as the rain increases the chances of multiplication, thereby increasing stocks as well as catches, Nyeko said.

The months of June, July and August are referred to as lean months because of a long dry spell in this period.

The drop in returns and tonnage experienced last year was due to the prolonged drought which had pushed the water levels below minimum.

Nyeko urged the fishing community to stop engaging in smuggling and illegal fishing practices.

The neighbouring countries are reaping big from our resources with the aid of the local people. Uganda loses $90 million annually in illegal fishing activities, Nyeko said.

Uganda's main fish markets are ANOVA, Phoenix-IFG, VSV, WS Fish (Holland), Ice mark (Belgium), Caladero (Spain) and Italy's Fiorital.