Local investors have been called upon to tap into Tanzania’s growing fish farming sector, a move seen as key to empowering women and youth economically.
The call came from the Minister of Livestock and Fisheries, Ambassador Dr. Bashiru Ally Kakurwa, during a visit to Mara Region to engage with fish farmers and fishermen.
Dr. Bashiru emphasized the potential in areas such as fish hatcheries, production of fingerlings, fish feed processing, and providing loans to groups involved in fish farming.
“Fish farming is a source of wealth. Despite challenges, no one is leaving this sector. I urge local investors to focus on fingerling production to ensure availability throughout the year. Some investors have already made significant progress thanks to their financial capacity,” he said.
The minister highlighted that the sector reflects President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s vision of uplifting women and youth through fisheries, urging all stakeholders to take advantage of the opportunities available.
Deputy Minister of Livestock and Fisheries, Ng’wasi Kamani, who oversees youth and women’s groups in livestock and fisheries, said the programs are already yielding results.
“Reports show that youth and women groups are benefiting from fish farming credit programs. We will continue addressing challenges to ensure these groups gain economic benefits,” he said.
One program beneficiary shared her experience, noting that all recipients of the first phase of the credit loans successfully harvested significant quantities of fish and repaid their loans, despite facing challenges due to limited prior experience.
The visit by Minister Dr. Bashiru and Deputy Minister Kamani will continue on December 23, 2025, in Ukerewe District, Mwanza Region.