Friday marked a significant milestone for Tanzania’s fisheries sector as Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Doto Biteko, during the 40th Anniversary celebrations of the Tanzania Fisheries Research Institute (TAFIRI), issued a directive to the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries. He urged the ministry and its associated institutions, including TAFIRI, to transform the fisheries industry into a crucial engine for poverty eradication in the country.
Speaking at the event held in Dar es Salaam, Dr. Biteko emphasized the need for strategic collaborations to enhance the fisheries sector's potential. He stressed the importance of expanding the scope of fisheries products to boost exports, generate foreign direct investments (FDIs), and address the economic challenges faced by the nation.
Dr. Biteko highlighted the significance of conserving the environment and water sources, essential for the sustainable growth of the fisheries sector. He reiterated the government's commitment to supporting TAFIRI in becoming a leading institution, not only in Tanzania but also in Africa and the global arena.
Underlining the sector’s potential, Dr. Biteko revealed that Tanzania's fish exports amounted to 249 million US dollars in the current year, showcasing substantial growth. However, he emphasized the need for further efforts, especially in utilizing the country’s abundant lakes, rivers, and oceans to enhance the living standards of its people.
Minister for Livestock and Fisheries, Mr. Abdallah Ulega, echoed Dr. Biteko’s sentiments, emphasizing the government's prioritization of the livestock and fisheries sector. He noted that the sector has created over 200,000 jobs through fishing licenses and employment in fish processing, benefiting over 4.5 million people. Currently contributing 1.7 percent to the country's GDP, the goal is to raise this figure to 10 percent by 2030.
The event also witnessed the launch of the Electronic Cath Assessment System (eCAST) in Potential Fishing Zones (PFZ) and the Strategy for Reduction of Loss and Waste in the Dagaa Fishery of Mainland (2023-2033). Additionally, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) announced a substantial increase in financing from 13 million US dollars to 25 million US dollars for its Heshimu Bahari Activity, extending its coverage to more seascape in mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.
These initiatives mark a pivotal moment for Tanzania’s fisheries sector, reaffirming the government's commitment to transforming it into a vital source of economic growth, employment, and poverty alleviation.