Tanzania cherishes fisheries as a science-based activity involving skilled people, modern technology

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Minister for Livestock and Fisheries, Dr Bashiru Ally Kakurwa has commended fisheries saying it is a science-based activity that requires skilled professionals, modern technologies and innovation to increase production, strengthen food security and ensure that small-scale fishers benefit from their activities.

Dr Kakurwa, who officially opened the Fourth International Fisheries and Aquaculture Research Conference (4tFAR4ViBE), stressed the importance of science, technology and innovation in advancing the sectors for the benefit of the nation.

He said the use of research and scientific evidence is critical to improving the management of fisheries and aquaculture resources while enabling Tanzania to sustainably harness opportunities within the Blue Economy.,

The three-day conference began today, August 24, 2026, at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre (JNICC) in Dar es Salaam, bringing together scientists, researchers, university experts and fisheries and aquaculture stakeholders from 17 countries.

For his part, Director General of the Tanzania Fisheries Research Institute (TAFIRI), Dr Ismael Kimirei, said the conference would provide experts with an opportunity to exchange scientific information and research findings that would contribute to strengthening the sustainability of the Blue Economy sector.

He said knowledge generated through the discussions would contribute to the development of the fisheries and aquaculture sectors and increase their contribution to the national economy as Tanzania implements the National Development Vision 2050.

ALSO READ: Dr Bashiru opens Researchers’ Conference as it seeks to advance fisheries, aquaculture sectors

During the event, Dr Kakurwa also witnessed the signing of an agreement for the construction of three deep-sea fishing vessels through the Tanzania Fisheries Corporation (TAFICO).

He said construction of the vessels would increase Tanzania’s capacity to exploit deep-sea fisheries resources and enhance the productivity of the Kilwa Fishing Port.

“The construction of these vessels will increase our capacity to fish in the deep sea and will also help make the Kilwa Fishing Port more productive,” he said.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, Agnes Meena, said the government aims to have a total of six deep-sea fishing vessels, with four operating on the mainland under TAFICO and two in Zanzibar.

She called on officials and stakeholders involved in the project to ensure that construction of the vessels is completed on time and in accordance with the required standards.

Deputy Minister for Livestock and Fisheries, Ng’wasi Damas Kamani, said that within nine months of Dr Kakurwa taking charge of the ministry, several measures had been taken to revive and strengthen TAFICO, including the plan to construct deep-sea fishing vessels.

He said the measures form part of government efforts to increase Tanzania’s capacity in deep-sea fishing and ensure that the sector makes a greater contribution to the national economy.

The 4tFAR4ViBE conference is continuing in Dar es Salaam, focusing on strengthening scientific collaboration, technology exchange and research aimed at promoting the sustainable development of fisheries and aquaculture.