DAR ES SALAAM, Nov 23 (NNN-DAILYNEWS) — TANZANIA’S fisheries sector has posted strong export growth, highlighting renewed investment and rising momentum in the country’s blue economy drive.
This was announced by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, Agnes Kisaka Meena, during the closing ceremony of World Fisheries Day on Nov 21, in Dar es Salaam.
According to Meena, exports of fish and fish products increased from 42,000 tonnes valued at 509.9bn/- to 59,000 tonnes worth 755bn/- in the latest reporting period.
The number of fishers also rose from 198,475 in 2023 to 201,661 in 2024, while fish-processing factories expanded sharply from 21 to 64 within the same timeframe.
“Tanzania is endowed with vast aquatic resources, oceans, rivers, lakes, dams, and wetlands—which form the backbone of our blue economy,” she said.
“An estimated six million Tanzanians rely on fisheries for their livelihoods. With a national population of about 62 million, this means nearly ten percent of citizens depend on this sector, underscoring its strategic role in the economy,” she added
Meena added that the government is strengthening deep-sea fishing, cage and pond aquaculture, and sustainable resource-management strategies to boost production, reduce environmental pressure and curb coastline encroachment.
The sector has also recorded higher production from natural water bodies, rising from 479,976 tonnes valued at 3.4tri/- in 2023 to 522,788 tonnes worth 4.3tri/- in 2024. The growth, she said, reflects improved management and increased investment.
The Ministry’s Assistant Director for Research and Training, Emelda Teikwa, said this year’s celebrations were held in both Dar es Salaam and Rukwa, in collaboration with various stakeholders.
She noted that World Fisheries Day continues to serve as a platform for raising awareness among fishers on sustainable practices, environmental conservation and beach cleanliness.
Representing fishers, the Chairperson of the Beach Management Unit (BMU) at Kawe, Mudu Mohamed, appealed to the government to address growing shoreline encroachment in Kawe, Kunduchi, Msasani, Mbweni, and Ununio.
He warned that the trend threatens marine ecosystems, fishing activities and business opportunities for women and youth who depend on the beaches.
He also requested an additional patrol boat to support BMU operations, enhance marine protection, and strengthen surveillance along the coastline.
The two-day commemorations featured environmental campaigns, beach clean-up exercises, public awareness sessions on fish consumption and open forums where fishers interacted with experts.
During the closing event, the Permanent Secretary launched the national management plan for Jodari (tuna) and a conservation plan for sharks and rays, before touring exhibition booths showcasing fisheries products and innovations.
This year’s theme was “Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture: A Strong Foundation for the Blue Economy.” — NNN-DAILYNEWS
