As per Uganda Bureau of Statistics Aquaculture Census report,Uganda produces a total of 65,444 Metric tonnes of Fish, 72.1% from Urban farms while 27.9% are from Rural farms. Highest production is recorded in Buganda sub-region, while Sebei sub-region recorded the lowest production.
Tilapia contributed 53,924 tonnes—more than 80% of total production. Catfish followed at 11,347 tonnes, while other species such as mirror carp made up only a marginal share.
Mirror carp contributed 111.4 metric tonnes (0.2%), while other species accounted for 61.1 metric tonnes (0Urban farms dominate output, contributing 72.1% or 47,050.7 metric tonnes. Rural farms account for 27.9%, producing 18,393.3 metric tonnes.
In his remarks at the release of the Uganda Aquaculture Census (UAC) Report 2025, Dr. Chris N. Mukiza noted that this is Uganda’s first Aquaculture Census, setting a precedent on the continent, as no other National Statistical Office in Africa has undertaken a comprehensive census of this nature.
He highlighted that the report provides up-to-date statistics on the structure of the aquaculture sector, including distribution patterns, stock production, and extension services, to support planning for food security, income generation, and value addition.
We are setting the pace for aquaculture statistics in Africa. This report comes at a critical time to guide Government and private sector planning,” said Dr. Chris N. Mukiza.
He further noted that the Bureau has released a revised calendar for completed surveys and census reports to respond to emerging developments in the statistical ecosystem, with the next release scheduled for 21st May, reinforcing transparency and accountability.
Concluding his remarks, Dr. Mukiza called upon Government, media, and all stakeholders to make full use of the data to inform evidence-based planning, policy formulation, and monitoring of programmes for socio-economic transformation.
The Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), conducted the first-ever National Aquaculture Census in May 2025. The enumeration took place between May 12 and June 2025, aiming to map fish farms and assess production.
Key Details About the Census:
The Census targeted all aquaculture establishments, including fish ponds, cages, pens, and tanks, aiming to capture data on farm characteristics and production levels.
The final report was announced in April 2026, revealing a fish production of 65,444 tonnes annually.
This exercise made Uganda the first country in Africa to conduct a full national aquaculture census.
The Census was officially launched in early May 2025, with specialized enumerators deployed across the country to collect data on fish farming technology, species, and farm locations.
UBOS to Train 284 Enumerators for Aquaculture Census 2025
