Themes
An enabling policy environment for poverty focused lake management
| An enabling policy and institutional environment is essential for effective integrated lake management, where lake management organisations are legally recognised and supported through national sector plans. Clear definition of roles and responsibilities are critical for fisheries co-management, so that communities and government complement and support each other in management and planning. An explicit poverty focus is required in legislation, management structures and decision making processes. |
Poverty focus
The overarching policy framework for development of Highly Indebted Poor Countries is set out in Poverty Reduction Strategy Papers. In Uganda, this is the Poverty Eradication Action Plan (PEAP). ILM supported the Department of Fisheries Resources, through the Environment and Natural Resources Sector Working Group in influencing the revision of the PEAP in 2003-04. For the first time, there is recognition of the role of the fisheries sector in poverty reduction and economic growth. The draft revised PEAP (2004) recognises the change in approach to fisheries management and the development of new institutional structures, at all levels. This official recognition provides key support to the new approach and provides all those involved in integrated lake management with the opportunity to seek financial support as part of the implementation of the PEAP.
Fisheries policy and legislation
The National Fisheries Policy 2004 was developed in recognition of the changing approach to fisheries management in Uganda. Supporting legislation has come from Statutory Instruments, which will be strengthened by the Fisheries Bill (2004) when passed. The Policy is being implemented through the Fisheries Sector Strategic Plan.
Sector Wide Approach (SWAp)
A SWAp is being developed in Uganda for the natural resource sector through the Environment and Natural Resources Sector Working Group. The purpose of the SWAp is to develop a more integrated, coherent and co-ordinated approach to natural resource management. Integrated lake management provides an excellent example of how sectors can come together for effective co-ordination and delivery.
Local Government Development Planning
District Development Plans provide the entry point for accessing central budget support for prioritised local interventions. Lake management plans and budgets must be integrated into local government planning systems, processes and cycles and be designed to compete for scarce financial resources by clearly demonstrating contributions to poverty reduction, improved livelihoods and economic development.
Community-based planning (CBP)
The Government of Uganda has adopted a community-based planning approach for planning at Parish and Sub-county levels, through the Harmonised Participatory Planning Guide. Involving communities in local government development planning is essential for plans to reflect community priorities. Planning for natural resource management must be fully integrated into mainstream planning for effective implementation.
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