The Government of Tanzania, through the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries under the Agriculture and Fisheries Development Programme (AFDP), has handed over 40 modern fish drying racks worth TZS 117 million to fishermen in Kilwa Kivinje, Lindi Region.
Each rack has the capacity to dry up to 3.7 tons of fish daily, boosting post-harvest efficiency.
Speaking at the handover ceremony on August 21, 2025, Minister of Livestock and Fisheries, Dr. Ashatu Kijaji, said the move is part of the government’s strategy to reduce post-harvest losses and ensure fish are dried in food-safe conditions.
“Previously, harvested fish were often spoiled due to inadequate drying facilities. Sometimes they were contaminated with sand or mud, reducing their market value and posing health risks to consumers. These modern racks will address these challenges,” Dr. Kijaji said.
The Minister urged fishermen to properly maintain and use the racks to maximize long-term benefits and achieve the intended objectives of the initiative.
Lindi Regional Commissioner, Ms. Zainab Telack, thanked the government and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) for supporting local fishermen. She called on the fishermen to use the racks to enhance their economic returns.
“One bucket of fresh fish now sells for between TZS 40,000 and 45,000. Our fishermen export fish to Rwanda, Congo, and Burundi. The challenge has been adding value locally, and today this has been addressed through the provision of these drying racks,” Ms. Telack noted.
The government, under President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, continues to strengthen the fishing sector by improving markets, storage facilities, cold rooms, fish processing machinery, and drying technologies nationwide.