Karuma Fishers Association partners with UWA to promote conservation and livelihoods
Through their earnings, the association has invested in long-term development projects to improve economic stability for members.
Kiryandongo: The Karuma Fishers Association has entered into a formal partnership with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) to enhance human-wildlife coexistence and improve the livelihoods of fishing communities near Murchison Falls National Park.
According to Emmanuel Okello, a Community Conservation Ranger attached to Karuma Wildlife Reserve, UWA has been engaging with local communities around protected areas since 2007.
Currently, UWA is working with 180 fishermen across the sub-counties of Diima, Nyamahasa, Karuma Town Council, and Kamdini in Oyam District.
For over 18 years, these fishing communities have been actively involved in sustainable fishing practices within the Murchison Falls Protected Area, supporting both environmental conservation and economic development.
Fishing remains a key income-generating activity for communities around the River Nile. Okello noted that the initiative aligns with UWA’s mission of working with stakeholders to make sustainable improvements in the lives of vulnerable individuals.
“Fishing is part of the livelihood strategy around the park, and we are working within our capacity to ensure it benefits the community while conserving wildlife,” Okello stated.
The fishermen collectively catch around 85 kg of Nile perch daily. Fresh Nile perch is sold at 15,000 UGX per kg while dried fish fetches a higher price of 20,000 UGX per kg.
According to Livingston Ojiga, the Chairman of the Karuma Fishers Association, proceeds from fishing are used to meet household needs and sustain community development projects.
Ojiga further explained that 10,000 UGX from each sale is divided equally, with 5,000 UGX going into the fishermen’s group account and the remaining 5,000 UGX allocated to UWA as part of their conservation commitment.
Through their earnings, the association has invested in long-term development projects to improve economic stability for members.
They purchased 1.5 acres of land for eucalyptus tree planting to promote environmental sustainability, constructed three fish ponds at a cost of 11.5 million UGX, aimed at empowering fishermen and diversifying income sources.
This collaborative approach between UWA and the fishing communities highlights the importance of balancing conservation efforts with economic empowerment, ensuring that both wildlife and local livelihoods thrive in the Murchison Falls region.
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