Abstract:

The Upper Victoria Nile (UVN), stretching from the backwaters of Nalubale/Kiira Dams to the Kalagala Offset, represents a region of exceptional aquatic biodiversity and critical fish habitats. This study, undertaken as part of the Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) Monitoring Initiative by Bujagali Energy Limited (BEL), was aimed to assess critical habitat-qualifying fish species particularly haplochromine cichlids while evaluating fisheries productivity, economic contributions, and the viability of conservation efforts within the UVN.
Catch effort and catch assessment surveys were conducted in April, August 2023, and May 2024 across both modified (e.g., Buyala, Kalange, Naava) and natural (e.g., Kalagala, Kibibi, Kasambya) habitats revealed over 15 fish species, including four of conservation concern per the IUCN Red List: Oreochromis esculentus (Near Threatened), Oreochromis variabilis (Near Threatened), Labeo victorianus (Critically Endangered), and Coptodon zilli (Vulnerable). Significant haplochromine diversity was observed, affirming the ecological importance of the region, particularly in the relatively undisturbed Kalagala Offset. Commercially valuable species such as; Labeobarbus altianalis, Lates niloticus, and Mormyrus kannume dominated the local fisheries. However, unsustainable practices, such as the widespread use of illegal basket traps and monofilament nets, were causing notable ecological damage. Post-harvest losses, estimated at 20%, result in annual economic losses of approximately UGX 90 million.
A detailed Cost-benefit analysis (CBA) underscored the economic rationale for conservation. While annual conservation costs (encompassing enforcement, habitat protection, community training, and research) were estimated at UGX 300 million, the benefits far exceeded this, with annual fishery revenue at UGX 2 billion and indirect ecological and livelihood benefits pushing the total value to UGX 2.5 billion. The benefit-cost ratio of 8.3:1 highlighted the substantial net gains derived from preserving biodiversity. Beyond monetary metrics, the Kalagala Offset sustains over 1,500 fishers and supports the livelihoods of more than 5,000 people, while also offering untapped potential for ecotourism and ecosystem service valuation.
Therefore, the study provided key recommendations that were as follows; Strengthen enforcement to eliminate illegal fishing and protect breeding grounds; Rehabilitate fish stocks through targeted restocking and habitat restoration; Support sustainable livelihoods by promoting legal fishing gear and alternative income sources; Improve post-harvest handling to reduce spoilage and increase fish value and also Expand research and monitoring, especially of endangered haplochromines, to guide conservation policy.
Generally; the Kalagala Offset is regarded as a cornerstone of aquatic biodiversity conservation in Uganda. This study demonstrated that protecting critical habitats not only conserves endangered species but also ensures sustainable fisheries and long-term economic resilience for riverine communities. The strategic investment in conservation yields substantial returns ecologically and economically affirming the need for continued and enhanced protection of the UVN and its vital resources.