The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has brought together fisheries officials and security agencies in a new training programme aimed at promoting human rights and accountability in Uganda’s fishing sector.
The two-day engagement is being conducted at the Civil Service College in Jinja by the UHRC Kampala Regional Office, with participants drawn from Mukono and Wakiso districts. Those attending include Fisheries Management Committee members, Fisheries Officers, UPDF personnel from the 155 Marine Battalion and officers from the Uganda Police Force.
The training is providing participants with practical knowledge on applying a Human Rights-Based Approach when carrying out enforcement and other duties. UHRC says the approach can help ensure that laws and regulations governing the fishing sector are enforced while respecting the rights and dignity of individuals.
The programme was officially opened by UHRC Acting Secretary Mr. Byonabye Kamadi, whose remarks were presented by Acting Director of Research, Education and Documentation Ms. Rosemary Kemigisha. The Commission commended the European Union and ENABEL for supporting initiatives aimed at strengthening Business and Human Rights practices in Uganda.
Kamadi said bringing the different stakeholders together would help improve coordination, accountability and referral mechanisms within the fishing sector. He said UHRC remains committed to promoting respect for human rights and ensuring that institutions responsible for enforcement understand their obligations.
According to the Head of the UHRC Kampala Regional Office, Ms. Juliet Logose, enforcement operations should be based on legality, necessity, proportionality, accountability and non-discrimination. She said observing these principles is essential for ensuring that enforcement officers perform their duties without infringing on people’s rights.
The participants are also using the training to examine human rights challenges affecting people in the fishing sector. Through discussions and practical engagements, they are exploring ways to address concerns affecting fishing communities while improving cooperation between fisheries authorities and security agencies.
The training is expected to strengthen joint efforts between the participating institutions and promote more accountable enforcement practices. The programme will continue on the second day, with participants expected to further examine human rights issues and identify practical measures for improving protection and accountability in Uganda’s fishing sector.
