NAIROBI, Aug 2 (NNN-KBC) — Kenya and Uganda have agreed to implement a cross-border licensing framework for Lake Victoria, marking a major milestone in joint efforts to promote sustainable fishing and combat illegal activities in the shared water body.
Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs, Hassan Ali Joho, and Uganda’s Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Frank Tumwebaze, held bilateral talks in Nairobi to outline the way forward in fostering cooperation on key challenges facing Lake Victoria.
Joho confirmed that the two countries will establish a technical working group comprising experts from both sides to implement the licensing framework.
“This framework will facilitate access to fishing grounds for licensed fishermen from both Kenya and Uganda while curbing illegal fishing activities and promoting sustainable fishing practices,” said CS Joho. “It will also enable recognition of licensed fishermen and enhance rescue operations.”
The meeting took place just a day after Joho signed two bilateral documents on cooperation in the minerals sector and fisheries development on behalf of the Government of Kenya. According to Joho, “Uganda is a key partner in these sectors.”
The two ministers also addressed the need to improve enforcement mechanisms and support joint rescue efforts. The recognition of licensed fishermen across both jurisdictions is expected to streamline operations and enhance safety for those who rely on the lake for their livelihoods.
Betsy Njagi, Principal Secretary for the State Department for the Blue Economy, who also attended the meeting, stressed the critical role of regional cooperation.
“Lake Victoria is a vital transboundary resource for the East African Community, supporting livelihoods, food security, employment, and economic growth,” said the PS.
“To unlock its full potential, partner states must work together to address the challenges that stand in the way,” she added, noting that the framework is a step in the right direction.
The new cooperation comes at a time when both Kenya and Uganda are seeking to revamp their Blue Economy strategies to promote responsible resource use and ensure equitable benefits for riparian communities. — NNN-KBC
