The government has ordered the completion of the Rubambagwe Aquaculture Development Centre in Chato District, Geita Region, by March 30, 2026, following concerns over delays in the implementation of the project despite funds having already been allocated.
The directive was issued on January 5, 2026, by the Minister for Livestock and Fisheries, Ambassador Dr Bashiru Ally Kakurwa, during an inspection visit to the centre.
Dr Bashiru said he was dissatisfied with the pace of construction, noting that there were no visible activities at the site even though the contractor had indicated a tight implementation schedule.
“For a project of this nature, with funds already provided, there should be clear progress on the ground. However, there is no cement, no aggregates and no construction work taking place,” he said.
In response, the minister instructed the ministry’s engineer, Mr George Kwandu, to submit copies of the phase-two implementation plan to his office and to key authorities, including the Geita Regional Commissioner, the Chato District Commissioner, the area Member of Parliament, the Chato District Executive Director, the Chama Cha Mapinduzi leadership, the Regional Police Commander and the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (Takukuru).
The stakeholders have been tasked with conducting weekly monitoring of the project to ensure that construction progresses as planned and that the facility is completed within the set deadline.
Dr Bashiru also directed the Geita Regional Commissioner, Mr Martin Shigela, together with the Regional Security Committee, to closely oversee the implementation of the project in line with government disbursements.
He stressed the need for strict supervision to ensure accountability and value for money, warning that failure to adhere to the agreed timeline would not be tolerated.
Once completed, the Rubambagwe Aquaculture Development Centre is expected to support fish breeding, research and the promotion of modern aquaculture practices, contributing to increased fish production, improved livelihoods for farmers and growth of the fisheries sector in the Lake Zone and the country at large.