President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has ordered the immediate dissolution of all landing site committees operating on lakes across Uganda, following mounting complaints and controversies raised by fishing communities over their conduct and operations.
The directive was communicated on Friday by the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, Colonel Chris Magezi, through his official X account.
According to Magezi, the President instructed the Chief of Defence Forces and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, to implement the decision with immediate effect after persistent grievances from fishermen countrywide.
In place of the disbanded committees, government will constitute new management structures composed of representatives from indigenous fishing communities and investors. The move is aimed at promoting inclusivity, transparency, and harmony in the management and utilization of Uganda’s fisheries resources, which have long been plagued by allegations of corruption, abuse of power, and marginalization of local fishermen.
The Deputy Chief of Defence Forces and Inspector General, Lieutenant General Sam Okiding, together with the Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security, Major General Richard Otto, have been tasked to supervise the formation of the new committees. The process is expected to be completed within three months.
In a related restructuring, the Fisheries Protection Unit (FPU) has been officially replaced by a newly established marine formation, the 155 Marines Battalion, which will now operate under the command and administration of the UPDF Marines Brigade.
Major Joseph Ssebukeera has been appointed Commanding Officer of the 155 Marines Battalion, while the Marines Brigade will continue to be led by Brigadier Michael Nyarwa.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Colonel Mercy Tukahirwa, who had been serving as Commander of the Fisheries Protection Unit, has been reassigned to the Office of the Senior Presidential Advisor on Defence and Security, Lieutenant General (Rtd) Proscovia Nalweyiso, where she will take on new responsibilities as assigned.
The Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, together with the UPDF, commended Lt Col Tukahirwa for her leadership and service, noting the successful completion of her tour of duty at the helm of the unit.
“These changes are intended to improve coordination, accountability, and effectiveness in the management and protection of Uganda’s fisheries resources, while addressing the legitimate concerns of local communities,” Colonel Magezi said.
The sweeping reforms mark a significant shift in government’s approach to fisheries governance and enforcement, as authorities seek to balance security, conservation, and the livelihoods of thousands of Ugandans who depend on fishing for survival.
