ACT Wazalendo presidential candidate Othman Masoud has vowed to transform Zanzibar’s fishing industry into a major driver of the economy if elected in the upcoming polls.
Speaking to fishermen in Shumba Village, Micheweni District, Pemba, Othman said Zanzibar’s oceans remain underutilized despite being a rich national resource.
He noted that most fishermen still rely on small, outdated fiber boats, limiting their ability to fish in deeper waters and fully benefit from the sea’s wealth.
“My government will provide modern fishing vessels and equipment to every qualified fisherman. Fish should not be a luxury but a staple for every household, and our hotels should never lack supply,” Othman said.
He highlighted the potential of Zanzibar’s fishing sector to generate jobs and boost the economy alongside tourism, citing Seychelles as an example, where deep-sea fishing and fish exports contribute significantly to national revenue. “If Seychelles can do it, why can’t we?” he asked.
Othman pledged to establish modern cold storage facilities and fish markets in Unguja and Pemba, ensuring fishermen receive fair prices for their catch. Currently, many fishermen sell fish cheaply due to lack of storage and direct market access.
He also emphasized youth employment, explaining that modern vessels, fish-processing factories, and international market access could create thousands of direct and indirect jobs.
Using the example of a young fisherman from Nungwi, Othman said proper support could turn struggling fishermen into successful entrepreneurs.
Safety at sea is another priority. Othman promised rescue boats stationed strategically along the coast to respond to emergencies, stressing that protecting fishermen is essential to protecting families and Zanzibar’s economy.
He also vowed to strengthen Zanzibar’s Special Anti-Smuggling Unit (KMKM) by providing modern vessels and equipment to combat illegal fishing and protect marine resources.
Additionally, he pledged to end bias in the distribution of fishing equipment, ensuring fair access for all qualified fishermen regardless of political affiliation or family connections.
During the meeting, fishermen shared their struggles. Veteran fisherman Juma Ali said, “We fish close to the shore because we lack deep-sea vessels.
Often we return empty-handed despite knowing fish are abundant offshore.” Others highlighted the need for storage infrastructure, as hotels demand fish that fishermen cannot supply due to lack of cold storage.
Othman’s plan presents a bold vision: modernize Zanzibar’s fishing sector, create jobs, safeguard marine resources, and make fishing a source of pride and prosperity for all.