By Alfred Zacharia
ACT Wazalendo presidential candidate Othman Masoud Othman has pledged to transform Zanzibar’s marine resources into a formal and productive sector, arguing that the dagaa (small fish) trade alone could generate significant revenue for the economy if managed efficiently.
Addressing fishermen and fish processors in Mangapwani, North B District, Othman said successive governments had failed to tap into the country’s vast ocean wealth, leaving citizens at the mercy of exploitative systems.
“Dagaa is a major business that can generate substantial income and strengthen our economy. But because of weak structures, foreigners dominate the trade while our fishermen continue to struggle,” he said.
He promised that an ACT Wazalendo government would provide modern drying sheds, cold storage facilities and better market access to ensure dagaa from Zanzibar is sold internationally.
“It is disheartening to see traders still drying dagaa on mats under the sun. When it rains, business comes to a standstill. My government will formalise this sector and ensure our products reach global markets,” he added.
Beyond fisheries, Othman pledged to introduce affordable loans for small- and medium-scale entrepreneurs, particularly those who depend on the ocean for their livelihoods.
The message resonated with residents, who said they had long been overlooked. Ali Makame Issa, a fish processor, noted: “In all my years in this business, I have never seen a government leader or candidate visit us. Othman’s visit shows he is a leader of the people.”
Another processor, Maimuna Abdalla, said poor working conditions had left many discouraged. “At times, we feel excluded from Zanzibar’s development. But today, we have renewed hope through Othman Masoud,” she said.
Analysts say Othman is positioning himself as a candidate focused on grassroots empowerment, using natural resources such as the ocean to drive inclusive growth and diversify Zanzibar’s economy.