In Uganda, anyone involved in small-scale fish processing or fish trade must obtain an Artisanal Processor or Fish Monger Licence. This licence is issued by the Directorate of Fisheries under the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF). It ensures compliance with fisheries laws and sustainable fish handling practices.
The licence helps regulate post-harvest activities, improve hygiene standards, and promote responsible fish trade across Uganda’s inland and coastal areas.
Step-by-Step Procedure
Step 1: Obtain the Application Form
Visit the Directorate of Fisheries at the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries headquarters in Entebbe to collect the application form.
Alternatively, request the form from your District Fisheries Office or Local Council Office responsible for fisheries licensing.
The form can also be obtained from:
Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries Resources
Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries
Plot 16–18 Lugard Avenue, Entebbe
P.O. Box 102, Entebbe, Uganda
Tel: 041 4320004
Email: [email protected]
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
Fill in all required details accurately, including:
- Name of applicant
- Nationality or Passport Number
- Mailing and physical address
- Telephone number
- Business location (building name or market)
- Vessel details (if applicable): name, type, hull, length, port of registration, and fishing methods
- Proposed area of operation and method of fish processing
Be sure to describe your fishmongering or artisanal processing operation in sufficient detail, including how and where the activities will take place.
Step 3: Attach Required Documents
Include the following documents when submitting your application:
- Duly filled Application Form for fish monger or artisanal processor
- Description of the fish processing or trading operation
- Copy of identification document (ID or Passport)
- Business registration certificate (if applicable)
- Fishing licence or pass (for those directly involved in fishing activities)
- Any additional documents requested by the Fisheries Department
Step 4: Pay the Licence Fee
Proceed to pay the licence fee of UGX 50,000 at any authorized bank as directed by the Directorate of Fisheries.
Attach the payment receipt to your application before submission.
Step 5: Submit the Application
Submit your completed form and all attachments to the Commissioner for Fisheries or the District Fisheries Office where your business operates.
Once submitted, the application will be reviewed to verify:
- Compliance with hygiene and fish handling standards
- Adequacy of processing facilities and equipment
- Applicant’s experience and credibility in the fish trade
Step 6: Approval and Issuance of Licence
If approved, the applicant will receive an Artisanal Processor or Fish Monger Licence, authorizing them to process or sell fish legally within Uganda.
The licence is typically issued within one week from submission if all requirements are met.
Fees
| Item | Fee (UGX) |
|---|---|
| Artisanal/Fish Monger Licence | 50,000 |
Validity
The licence is valid for one year and expires on 31 December of the year of issuance.
Renewals must be done before expiry to continue operations without interruption.
Eligibility
The licence can be obtained by:
- Ugandan citizens and foreign residents with a valid fishing pass or trade licence
- Individuals or businesses engaged in fish processing, handling, or trading
- Tourists or foreign investors with appropriate business or tourist visas
Required Information
Applicants must provide:
- Full name and identification details
- Business address and contact information
- Vessel details (if applicable)
- Type of processing or trading operation
- Declaration of compliance with fisheries laws
Need for the Document
The Artisanal Processor/Fish Monger Licence is required to legally handle, process, or sell fish in Uganda. It ensures that fish products are sourced, processed, and distributed in accordance with national fisheries and food safety regulations.
Every fishmonger or processor must carry their licence during operations and present it for inspection when requested by fisheries officers or local authorities.
Information Which Might Help
- Export or import of live fish requires special permission from the Minister of Fisheries.
- Unauthorized fishing or fish trade is punishable by fines or imprisonment under the Fish Act Cap 197.
- The licence supports better regulation of Uganda’s fish industry and prevents illegal fishing activities.
- All vessels engaged in fish transportation or processing must be registered with the Ministry of Fisheries Development.
