Community perceptions of government regulations on fishing in Mugoye Sub-County, Kalangala District

Abstract

The study was set to investigate the community perceptions of government’s enforcement of quality fish yield standards in Kalangala District. A cross sectional research design employing both quantitative and qualitative methods was employed. Fifty-eight participants were recruited into the study through purposive sampling. The study found out that the community were not consulted in the developing of the various regulations. Although involved at the start, it was reported that with time government did not engage community structures (for example Beach Management Units) in the enforcement of the regulations. It was also found that fisher men and women continued to engage in illegal fishing practices given that they could not afford the cost of required fishing nets, hooks and boats. The study recommends that government implements a bottom-up approach in the enforcement of quality fish yield standards.