Fisheries minister says new regulations with tougher penalties for illegal gear importers are ready for Cabinet

State Minister for Fisheries Robert Migadde Ndugwa said at a meeting of the agriculture ministry with local government leaders that new fisheries regulations are complete and awaiting presentation to Cabinet. According to the Daily Monitor, the proposals would set up to seven years in prison or a Shs200 million fine for importers of banned fishing gear, control fish, boat and net sizes, and allow closure of specific landing sites where illegal fishing persists. Minister Frank Tumwebaze warned against corruption among fisheries officials and acknowledged complaints of harassment by security personnel during enforcement.