In Uganda, all individuals or businesses involved in fishing or aquaculture activities must obtain a fishing licence issued by the Chief Fisheries Officer under the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF).
The purpose of the licence is to ensure that fishing and aquaculture are conducted in a regulated, sustainable, and environmentally responsible manner. The licence is valid for one year and must be renewed before expiry.
Step-by-Step Procedure
Step 1: Prepare a Written Application
The applicant must write to the Chief Fisheries Officer expressing intent to operate an aquaculture establishment or engage in fishing activities.
The application should include:
- Description and particulars of the aquaculture establishment.
- Details of the methods to be employed in aquaculture or fishing.
- The specific area of operation.
- Payment of the prescribed fee.
Step 2: Submit the Required Documents
Attach all necessary documents as part of the application. These include:
- A detailed aquaculture establishment business plan.
- Site suitability report confirming compliance with environmental and water use standards.
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report for commercial-scale farming.
Incomplete submissions will not be processed.
Step 3: Review and Inspection
The Chief Fisheries Officer may require the applicant to demonstrate that the aquaculture establishment:
- Is properly equipped and meets technical standards.
- Has appropriate control measures for sustainable fish production.
- Employs safe and approved fishing or aquaculture practices.
An on-site inspection may be conducted to confirm the details provided in the application.
Step 4: Payment of Licence Fees
Upon satisfactory review, the applicant will be requested to pay the prescribed fees. Payment should be made to the designated MAAIF bank account, and proof of payment attached to the application.
Fee Schedule:
- Application Fee: UGX 10,000
- Licence Fee: UGX 100,000
- Renewal Fee: UGX 100,000
Step 5: Issuance of the Licence
After verification, the Chief Fisheries Officer issues the Fishing or Aquaculture Licence under conditions deemed necessary.
The licence is valid for one year and expires on 31st December of each year.
Licensees must apply for renewal at least one month before expiry to continue operations without interruption.
Office Contact Information
Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries Resources – Head Office
Directorate of Fisheries,
Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF)
Plot 16–18 Lugard Avenue, Entebbe, Uganda
P.O. Box 102, Entebbe, Uganda
Tel: +256 414 320004
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.agriculture.go.ug
Eligibility
This licence is open to:
- Individuals or companies operating aquaculture farms or fish breeding facilities.
- Fisheries investors who wish to engage in fish production or export.
- Registered aquaculture establishments with environmental compliance certificates.
Validity
The Fishing Licence is valid for one (1) year, after which it must be renewed. The permit may be granted for specific uses such as nursery, grow-out, breeding, or ornamental fish production.
Processing Time
The maximum processing time is one week, provided all documents and payments are complete.
Sample Document
Aquaculture Establishment Certificate (Extract):
This is to certify that [Name of Applicant] meets the required conditions to practice aquaculture as a [Type of Operation] in [District]. The establishment is required to comply with the Fish (Aquaculture) Rules 2003 and is permitted to practice [Semi-intensive or Intensive Culture].
Fee Paid: [UGX amount]
Chief Fisheries Officer: [Signature]
Date: [Issued Date]
Required Information
When completing the application, include:
- Type of fishing or aquaculture activity (e.g., nursery, breeder, ornamental).
- Type and specifications of fishing equipment.
- Details of fry producer or bait supplier (if applicable).
- Information about species to be cultivated.
- Applicant’s full name, contact address, and identification.
Need for the Document
A fishing licence ensures the sustainable use of aquatic resources and prevents illegal or environmentally harmful practices. It helps government authorities:
- Monitor and regulate aquaculture development.
- Prevent overfishing and habitat degradation.
- Ensure public health and food safety through certified fish production.
Additional Information
- No person may engage in fish breeding or import/export live fish for aquaculture without a permit from the Chief Fisheries Officer.
- Importation of live fish requires a certificate of fish import.
- Activities must not:
- Degrade the environment without mitigation.
- Introduce non-approved fish species.
- Compromise food safety standards.
All new genetic materials for aquaculture must comply with National Bio-safety Guidelines from the Uganda National Council of Science and Technology.
