Published on 19/09/2024
The Association of Fishers and Lake Users of Uganda (AFALU) has announced its upcoming Fishers’ General Assembly, set to take place on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at Gaba Beach Hotel in Kampala.
According to Mr. Sesenyonga Godfrey Kambugu, AFALU’s chairman the assembly aims to unite fishers, policymakers and various stakeholders to discuss the pressing challenges faced by Uganda’s fishing industry.
In an invitation sent out to participants, Mr. Kambugu emphasized the significance of collective dialogue, noting, “The purpose of the general assembly is to meet with fishers, policymakers, and fisheries stakeholders to provide feedback on AFALU activities, brainstorm on challenges affecting the fishing industry, and develop resolutions to address these challenges.”
The event, which is expected to draw over 1,000 fishers from lakes across Uganda, will feature key players in the sector.
Attendees will include the top leadership of the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF), the National Fisheries Resources Research Institute (NaFIRRI), the Lake Victoria Fisheries Organization (LVFO), the Commander of the Fisheries Protection Unit (FPU), as well as representatives from the Uganda Fish Processors and Exporters Association (UFPEA) and Fisheries Civil Society Organizations (CSOs).
Members of Parliament representing fishing communities, fishing gear manufacturers, media houses, and other critical stakeholders will also participate in the discussions.
Mr Kambugu further noted that the Assembly, which will run from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, will serve as a platform for different stakeholder to engage in shaping the future of Uganda’s fishing industry and encouraged all stakeholders to attend in large numbers and share their views:
“Come and participate in shaping the direction of your fishing industry. Your views are very important.” he said.
This assembly comes at a crucial time as the fishing industry faces a number of challenges, including declining fish stocks, illegal fishing practices, and regulatory concerns and this meeting is seen as an opportunity for a unified effort towards sustainable fishing practices and enhanced governance in the sector.
