The government has expressed strong dissatisfaction over the slow progress of the Kipumbwi Fish Market construction in Pangani District, Tanga Region, warning the contractor to speed up work or face consequences.
The Deputy Permanent Secretary responsible for Fisheries in the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, Mohammed Ali Sheikh, issued the directive during a working visit to inspect the project on February 27, 2026.
The market is being constructed under the Agriculture and Fisheries Development Programme (AFDP), with financial support from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
The project is expected to transform fish trading activities in Kipumbwi and surrounding coastal areas by providing modern infrastructure for fishermen and traders.
However, progress currently stands at only 28 percent a level Prof. Sheikh described as unsatisfactory.
He directed World Class Engineering Contractors Limited to increase construction speed and raise completion status from 28 percent to at least 80 percent within two weeks.
He stressed that this target can only be achieved if the contractor mobilizes more building materials, increases manpower and operates both day and night shifts.
“The Ministry will not enter into discussions on extending the contract,” Prof. Sheikh said firmly, signaling the government’s zero-tolerance stance on project delays.
He further instructed the contractor to report to the Ministry immediately with a clear recovery plan detailing how the project will be completed within the agreed timeframe.
He also called on the company to submit payment certificates without delay to facilitate timely disbursement of funds and avoid administrative setbacks.
To strengthen oversight, Prof. Sheikh directed the Ministry’s Infrastructure Development Department to assign a dedicated engineer to closely supervise daily implementation of the project.
He emphasized that contractors must remain physically present at the construction site to ensure accountability and efficiency.
The Deputy Permanent Secretary said the government under President Samia Suluhu Hassan is prioritizing the expansion of fisheries infrastructure nationwide as part of efforts to increase productivity, reduce post-harvest losses and improve incomes for fishing communities.
He also urged experts from Pangani District Council to closely monitor the project and work in collaboration with the Ministry to ensure the facility is completed as soon as possible.
Once completed, the Kipumbwi Fish Market is expected to provide a modern and hygienic trading environment, improve market access and significantly boost economic activity in Pangani District and the wider Tanga Region.
