Tanzania has been urged to align its laws governing marine resources with international legal standards to strengthen the protection of the ocean and unlock more benefits from the blue economy.
The call was made during the Fifth International Blue Economy Conference in Dar es Salaam, where stakeholders discussed ways of strengthening the legal framework governing marine resources and related economic activities.
Felix Chakila, Director of the Alternative Dispute Resolution Unit in the Ministry of Constitutional and Legal Affairs, said reviewing domestic laws was necessary as Tanzania seeks to expand its blue economy in line with the National Development Vision 2050.
He said the three-day conference, which ended on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, provided an opportunity for stakeholders to exchange views on how the country can improve management of natural and marine resources.
One of the key issues raised was the need for Tanzania's domestic laws to be consistent with international legal frameworks, he said.
Mr Chakila said such alignment would help minimise legal conflicts, particularly in matters involving relations between countries and cross-border dealings involving individuals and businesses.
“Tanzania has various laws governing the protection and management of natural resources, borders and marine resources. It is important that these laws continue to be reviewed and updated to respond to emerging demands in the blue economy,” he said.
The issue was also highlighted by Aron Seni, Commissioner for Constitutional and Legal Affairs at the Tanzania Higher Learning Institutions Students Organisation (TAHLISO).
Mr Seni said maritime activities are largely governed by international laws, making it important for Tanzania to incorporate relevant international legal principles into its domestic legislation.
He said this would strengthen the country's ability to protect marine resources while creating a legal framework capable of addressing new challenges and investment opportunities in the blue economy.
Mr Seni said the conference also exposed participants to the work of the Ministry of Constitutional and Legal Affairs, including its role in overseeing the Constitution and laws governing the United Republic of Tanzania.
He said participants also learned about legal aid services provided under the Mama Samia Legal Aid Programme, which assists citizens who cannot afford legal services.
The blue economy covers a wide range of activities, including fisheries, shipping and transport, tourism and other businesses that depend on marine resources.
Mr Seni said sustainable use of these resources would require not only strong laws but also effective enforcement.
A clear and enforceable legal framework, he said, would help Tanzania balance economic activities in the marine sector with the need to protect resources for future generations.