The Minister for Livestock and Fisheries, Ambassador Dr. Bashiru Ally Kakurwa, has directed the Deep-Sea Fishing Authority (DFSA) to further increase revenue collection from deep-sea fishing, saying the sector has the potential to contribute far more to the national economy.
Dr. Bashiru made the remarks on December 17, 2025, during an inspection visit to DFSA activities in Zanzibar.
While commending the Authority for the recent improvement in collections, he stressed that deep-sea fishing should generate higher returns compared to other fishing activities if its potential is fully harnessed.
He emphasized that the government’s leadership is focused on results rather than procedures, urging the Authority to adopt innovative approaches that can transform the sector.
Citing the impact of the Royal Tour film in boosting tourism, Dr. Bashiru challenged DFSA to develop initiatives capable of driving similar transformation in deep-sea fishing.
The Minister also called for the establishment of strong strategies to enhance private sector participation, noting that increased investment would strengthen capacity, improve efficiency, and raise overall revenue performance.
He praised sectors that have already started investing in deep-sea fishing, describing their involvement as a positive step.
The Minister for Blue Economy and Fisheries, Mr. Masoud Ally Mohammed, said the visit by Dr. Bashiru and Permanent Secretaries from both ministries would accelerate the implementation of directives from the leadership of the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania and the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar.
He said these directives are aimed at positioning deep-sea fishing as a key driver of economic growth.
Meanwhile, DFSA Director General Dr. Salehe Yahya said the Authority is committed to increasing national income through the blue economy.
He noted that revenue from the sector is expected to rise significantly once major institutions and infrastructure become fully operational, including the Tanzania Fisheries Corporation (TAFICO), the Zanzibar Fisheries Corporation (ZAFICO), and the fishing port currently under construction in Kilwa District.