President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania has revealed a comprehensive roadmap to enhance the country’s fisheries sector, aiming to fully unlock its potential and contribute significantly to the national income.
During a recent event in Mwanza, President Samia outlined key initiatives, including the acquisition of vessels for deep-sea fishing and the introduction of cage fish farming across major lakes. These efforts underscore the government’s commitment to maximizing the benefits of Tanzania’s fisheries sector.
The President emphasized the importance of formalizing jobs in the fishing sector, particularly for young people and women engaged in informal employment. She urged beneficiaries of fishing equipment to take care of the provided resources and return interest-free loans to support other aspiring individuals.
Additionally, President Samia directed the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries to closely monitor the progress of beneficiaries and provide professional advice to ensure compliance with laws and regulations for sustainable fishing practices.
Minister for Livestock and Fisheries, Abdallah Ulega, disclosed plans to distribute 500 boats in the fiscal year 2024/2025, highlighting the sector’s significant contribution to employment, with over four million Tanzanians currently employed in fisheries-related activities.
Furthermore, Minister Ulega highlighted the allocation of funds for various projects in the fishing sector, focusing on infrastructure, markets, and model farms. The distributed boats, equipped with fishing gear, GPS, and life jackets, aim to facilitate the growth of the sector.
The event also saw the distribution of fish cages, benefiting more than 1,200 young people and women. These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to revitalizing the fisheries sector, fostering economic growth, job creation, and sustainable management of aquatic resources.
However, addressing concerns about the decline in fish population in Lake Victoria, Mwanza Regional Commissioner Amos Makalla attributed it to illegal fishing practices. The region has implemented measures to control illegal fishing and promote sustainable practices, aiming to address the decline in fish population in the lake.
