The Contribution of National Fisheries Policy Implementation to Economic Security Management between Kenya and Uganda

Abstract

The global agenda for natural resource management espouses the principle that disputes between riparian states are resolved in a peaceful manner. The management of economic security on Lake Victoria transboundary disputes between Kenya-Uganda which are about resources within the maritime zone has been negatively affected by transboundary dispute since resolutions on the same do not focus on the economic security aspect. This paper evaluates the contribution of national fisheries policy implementation to economic security management between Kenya and Uganda. Structural-functionalist, social conflict and John Burton’s conflict resolution theory guided the study. The study employed descriptive research design while purposive and simple random sampling techniques were used to determine samples. Philosophically, the study contributed towards a better understanding of the transboundary disputes and their management as well as forming a basis for future research. Study findings indicated that statutory instruments regulate fishing operations or the conduct of fishing as public revenues of both Kenya and Uganda on Lake Victoria. The study recommends a robust reform in the national policies on fishery by both Kenya and Uganda to militate against the Lake Victoria transboundary dispute and bolster economic security management. The statutory instruments for fishing should be revised to provide an enabling fishing environment for fishers and fish traders.