A Fishing Vessel Licence Uganda is an official authorization issued by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) through the Department of Fisheries Resources. It allows individuals, companies, or associations to legally operate fishing vessels in Uganda’s water bodies, including lakes, rivers, swamps, and dams. The licence helps regulate fishing operations, ensuring safety, sustainability, and compliance with fisheries laws.
Application Procedure
Applicants must visit the Directorate of Fisheries under MAAIF to obtain the prescribed form. The completed form, along with all required documents, should be submitted to the Chief Fisheries Officer. A fisheries inspection officer will then visit the proposed fishing site to verify the vessel’s suitability, as well as the legality of fishing gears and appliances.
After inspection, only approved fishing equipment is allowed to proceed to the next stage. Applicants are then issued with a bank slip to pay the prescribed fees at an authorized bank. Once payment proof is submitted, the Directorate processes the application and, if approved, issues the Fishing Vessel Licence or Permit Uganda.
Required Documents
- Membership certificate from a Beach Management Unit (BMU)
- Legal and approved fishing gears and appliances
- Proof of proprietorship, partnership, or association
- National Identity Cards of all owners or directors
- Tax Identification Number (TIN)
- Certified Memorandum and Articles of Association
- Certificate of Incorporation and Business Commencement
- List of Directors
- Original ownership deed or equivalent proof
- Builder’s Certificate
- Bill of Sale and deletion certificate
- Full-Term Tonnage Certificate
- Protection & Indemnity (P&I) Insurance evidence
- Certificate of Tonnage Measurement
- International Tonnage Certificate
- Condition Survey Report
- Certificate of Carving and Marking
- Load Line Certificate
- Vessel logbook
- Proof of operational experience
Required Information
Applicants must include the vessel’s name, type, tonnage details, place of purchase, master’s name, ship manager’s address, and supporting certifications.
Eligibility
Any individual or entity actively engaged in fishing vessel operations in Uganda qualifies for the Fishing Vessel Licence Uganda.
Fees
- Application Fee: UGX 10,000 (non-refundable)
- Licence Fee: UGX 25,000
Validity
The Fishing Vessel Licence Uganda is valid for one year and must be renewed annually before expiry.
Processing Time
Processing takes a maximum of two (2) working days, provided all documents and payments are complete.
Need for the Document
The Fishing Vessel Licence Uganda ensures responsible fishing practices, promotes environmental sustainability, and enforces compliance with national fisheries regulations. It helps protect aquatic ecosystems, prevent illegal fishing, and support fair use of marine resources.
Other Uses of the Licence
- Proof of legal authorization to operate a fishing vessel
- Required document for marine audits and inspections
- Basis for insurance registration and commercial partnerships
Office Locations & Contacts
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
Tel: 041 4320004
Email: [email protected]
