President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has pledged to promote fish farming as one of the key income-generating ventures under the next National Resistance Movement (NRM) government, saying it has great potential to uplift smallholder farmers across Uganda.
Speaking on Wednesday at a joint campaign rally for Gulu City and Gulu District held at Kaunda Parade Grounds, President Museveni told thousands of enthusiastic supporters that aquaculture—fish farming—will be one of the government’s top agricultural priorities if he wins the 2026 general elections.
“Fish farming is a high-value agricultural venture under the four-acre model. With proper management, it can transform the livelihoods of our small farmers,” Museveni said.
Museveni explained that his four-acre model encourages farmers to maximize small plots of land by engaging in different high-income activities. These include coffee, fruits, dairy, and fish farming.
He said that with proper training and access to quality fingerlings, feeds, and water sources, even farmers with limited land can earn significant income from fish ponds.
“If a farmer uses just one acre for fish ponds, they can earn millions every year,” the President emphasized. “We will continue to train extension workers and provide the necessary support so that every region can benefit.”
Museveni also promised to expand aquaculture infrastructure by setting up regional fish hatcheries, providing affordable feeds, and strengthening cooperatives to help farmers access better markets.
He noted that Uganda’s natural water resources — including Lake Victoria, Lake Kyoga, and the River Nile — provide an excellent environment for aquaculture expansion, especially in Northern Uganda, where youth unemployment remains high.
“We have water, land, and hardworking people,” Museveni said. “What we need is to organize farmers, support them with inputs, and connect them to both local and export markets.”
The President urged young people and women to take advantage of the growing global demand for fish and fish products, which he said could bring more jobs and income to communities.
“The youth should not wait for office jobs. Fish farming is a business that can give you daily income,” Museveni told the crowd. “Women groups can also benefit through processing, packaging, and selling fish.”
Under the current NRM government, several fish farming projects have already been introduced through Operation Wealth Creation (OWC) and Parish Development Model (PDM). Museveni said the next term will focus on scaling up these initiatives with better monitoring and farmer training programs.
The President added that the government will collaborate with district local governments, universities, and private investors to boost research in fish breeding, disease control, and market access.
Local leaders in Gulu welcomed Museveni’s pledge, saying the region’s numerous water bodies make it ideal for aquaculture.
Gulu City Mayor Alfred Okwonga said fish farming could help reduce poverty among youth and former war-affected families if the government provides practical support.
“We have many unemployed young people who are ready to work. With support in training and inputs, fish farming can become a key source of income for our people,” Okwonga said.
As the 2026 elections draw closer, President Museveni continues to emphasize his government’s focus on wealth creation, job opportunities, and modernization of agriculture through technology and innovation.
His message in Gulu reflects a broader NRM campaign theme: “Creating Wealth, Securing the Future.”
“The NRM has always focused on improving household incomes,” Museveni concluded. “Fish farming is not just about food — it’s about prosperity for every Ugandan.”
