The World Bank has commended the Fisheries Education and Training Agency (FETA) for progress in implementing a project aimed at improving fisheries management and aquaculture development, with achievements including new training programmes, curriculum reviews and technical skills development.
The commendation was made on October 26, 2026, during a meeting between a World Bank delegation led by Task Team Leader Mirko Ivo Serkovic, officials from the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries and FETA representatives to assess the implementation of the Tanzania Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture Development Project (TASFAM).
The review focused on activities undertaken by FETA during the past year and the project's contribution to strengthening skills and improving the capacity of people working in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors.
FETA Chief Executive Officer Dr Semvua Mzighani outlined the agency's mandate and responsibilities, while the institution's TASFAM coordinator, Mr Arnold Mbunda, presented progress made under the project.
Among the achievements, FETA has provided short-term training for seafarers and marine vessel operators, focusing on safety at sea. It has also conducted training in the processing of fishery products and seaweed, skills considered important for improving product quality and adding value to fisheries activities.
The project has also supported the review of five existing training curricula and the development of 12 new ones, alongside the preparation of eight training manuals for short courses.
FETA has further developed training curricula for seafarers in line with the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), which provide international requirements for maritime training and certification.
In another initiative, 40 participants from Tanga and Lindi regions received training in the maintenance and servicing of fishing boats and engines.
The training is expected to strengthen technical skills among people involved in fishing activities, particularly in maintaining equipment and vessels used in their daily operations.
The agency has also invested in building the capacity of its employees through various training programmes, including the use of laboratory equipment to improve practical training and technical expertise.
The meeting was also attended by Dr Nichrous Mlalila, the TASFAM coordinator for Mainland Tanzania.
Following the meeting, the World Bank delegation visited FETA's aquaculture department, where members observed the production of tilapia fingerlings and inspected fish farming ponds.
The visit provided an opportunity to assess the institution's practical work in aquaculture training and fish production, which are among the areas being supported through the project.
The achievements presented during the meeting highlight FETA's role in developing the technical skills needed to support sustainable fisheries management, improve aquaculture production and strengthen the contribution of the sector to the economy.