Ugandan Fishing Communities Embrace Life-Saving Training Through IFFS Support
Fishing communities across Uganda’s Kalangala District and the wider Ssese Islands are experiencing a major transformation in safety and wellbeing following a £50,000 investment from the International Fund for Fishing Safety (IFFS).
Delivered by BARIA’S Association of Uganda (BAU), the ambitious project is providing comprehensive safety training, emergency response skills, and access to life-saving equipment for thousands of vulnerable fishers operating on Lake Victoria and surrounding inland waters.
The project, Fishers’ Safety and Wellbeing - Training, Safety Awareness, and Lifejacket Rental Scheme, is designed to tackle the severe risks faced daily by fishing communities. Lake Victoria is one of the most dangerous inland water bodies in the world, with frequent drowning incidents driven by poor weather, overcrowded boats, lack of safety equipment, and limited emergency training. Many fishers have also lacked access to healthcare guidance, first aid knowledge, and protection from waterborne diseases such as Bilharzia (Schistosomiasis).
Through this initiative funded by IFFS, we are delivering structured water safety, health, and first aid training at key landing sites across Kalangala’s 63 islands, with plans to reach all seven sub-counties. Working in partnership with the Uganda Red Cross, Marine Police, Army Marine Forces, District Fisheries Officers, and Health Teams, the project provides hands-on, practical training directly at remote fishing communities. Sessions cover drowning prevention, correct use of lifejackets, CPR, trauma care, emergency response to capsizing incidents, crocodile encounters, safe gear handling, weather risk awareness, fisheries management, sustainable fishing practices, mental wellbeing, and disease prevention.
At the heart of the project is a pioneering lifejacket rental scheme. With 800 approved lifejackets supplied through IFFS funding, fishers can now rent lifejackets for just UGX 1,000 (around £0.20) per day. Jackets are stored securely at landing site offices, with Beach Management Units supporting tracking and maintenance. Fishers leave their National Identity Card as security, and damaged lifejackets must be replaced by the user. Revenue from the scheme is reinvested into purchasing additional lifejackets, ensuring the system is sustainable and not dependent on one-off donations.
Community response has been overwhelming. Thousands of fishers - including men, women, and many young people have attended the sessions, often arriving long before trainers reach their shores. Many describe the training as genuinely life-changing. For many participants, this marks the first time they have ever received formal safety or first aid instruction. Which is a direct link with the global picture seen with 73% fishers never receiving safety training at work.
“To see fishermen who once feared the lake now floating with confidence in their lifejackets is deeply moving. These communities have waited years for real safety support. Every life saved is a blessing, and this project is proving that every fisher’s life truly matters.” - Ord. Mercy Namuganza, Project Coordinator at BARIA’S Association of Uganda
Beyond immediate safety improvements, the project is also strengthening long-term health and resilience. Fishers are being trained to recognize symptoms of Bilharzia, reduce exposure to infected water, and seek early medical care. Mental wellbeing is also being addressed, helping fishers cope with the extreme stress and dangers of their occupation.
The project is benefiting at least 5,220 direct beneficiaries, with wider indirect impact across fishing households and associated livelihoods. By reducing accidents and fatalities, improving emergency response, and strengthening health awareness, the initiative is already helping stabilise incomes and reduce work disruption caused by injury and illness.
Ultimately, the project is laying the foundation for a lasting culture of safety on Lake Victoria - where wearing lifejackets becomes routine, first aid knowledge is widespread, and fishing communities are empowered to protect both their lives and their livelihoods.
