Scaling Up Uganda's Fish Export and Aquaculture for a Resilient Blue Economy: An IGAD Mission
In late December 2025, an IGAD delegation led by Dr. Eshete Dejen, Head of the Sustainable Environment Protection Unit at the IGAD Agriculture and Environment Division, embarked on a technical mission to Uganda. This mission aimed to explore and enhance the country's fisheries and aquaculture sector, a key component of the Blue Economy in the IGAD region. The delegation's focus was on documenting best practices, assessing export systems, and fostering collaboration with key players in the fish value chain.
The journey began at the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries, where Ugandan authorities shared their progress in fisheries governance, export regulations, and aquaculture development. With a rapidly growing population projected to reach 100 million by 2050, the Ministry emphasized the crucial role of aquaculture in providing affordable protein while reducing pressure on wild fish stocks. This highlighted the need for coordinated governance, robust data systems, and sustained investment to improve sector performance.
On the second day, the delegation visited Lake Bounty Group, a prominent exporter of Nile Perch fillet to the European Union. The company provided valuable insights into value addition, market requirements, and the economic impact of high-standard fish processing. This was followed by a visit to Chemiphar Laboratory, an accredited testing facility in Uganda, which ensures compliance with international food safety standards. Uganda's strengthened quality assurance system, developed after previous EU export bans, continues to safeguard market access and contributes significantly to the national economy, estimated at USD 100-150 million annually.
The third day of the mission showcased the dynamism of Uganda's aquaculture sector, particularly cage farming on Lake Victoria, which accounts for over 99% of national aquaculture production. At the Kasenyi Fish Landing Site, the delegation observed inspection procedures that ensure export-bound Nile Perch meets international standards. Discussions with operators at Victoria Treasures Limited further emphasized the growing role of private-sector investment in tilapia production, processing, and export, driving innovation and competitiveness across the value chain.
Through this mission, IGAD aims to document Uganda's achievements, lessons learned, and scalable community-driven technologies. These findings will be compiled into policy briefs, case studies, and multimedia resources, supporting Member States in advancing sustainable aquaculture, enhancing food safety systems, promoting private-sector participation, and strengthening resilient Blue Economy value chains. By collaborating closely with national institutions, research bodies, and private operators, IGAD continues to foster inclusive, competitive, and environmentally sustainable growth across the region's Blue Economy.
