508 modern boats in offer to boost fishing sector

ZANZIBAR: MINISTER for Blue Economy and Fisheries, Mr Shaaban Ali Othman said yesterday that fishers in Zanzibar are currently adopting and using modern fishing equipment, thanks to the government efforts top promote blue economy in the country.

The Minister said the new technology boost the sector and that fishermen are capable of fishing in deep water.

“We have been training and providing new fishing equipment and boats. We trained 70 trainers of Trainees (ToT) 665 fishers on how to use fish finders, and GPS receivers,” Mr Othman said.

He informed the House during questions and Answers session that the fishers have been supplied with 508 fishing boats, which has so far boosted the fishing sector in the isles.

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The minister explained that the manufacturing and distribution of fishing boats to the fishers is an ongoing exercise, urging the beneficiaries to maintain the boats.

“Evaluation of the distribution and use of the boats to improve fishing will be done. Our aim is to ensure that fishers shift to modern fishing to increase catch while preserving the sea,” Mr Othman said.