CCM vows to complete Kilwa fishing port

LINDI: CHAMA Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) presidential running mate, Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi has said that his party, if re-elected to lead the nation, will complete all strategic projects including finishing the construction of Kilwa Masoko fishing port.

He said the government will also advance fisheries and agriculture sectors to ensure enough food production and economic growth.

Addressing a campaign rally at Tingi ward, Kilwa North constituency, Dr Nchimbi commended President Samia Suluhu Hassan for her remarkable leadership, noting that her efforts have brought honour to both the government and CCM, particularly through significant progress in the fisheries and agriculture sectors across Lindi Region.

Expressing the achievements in fisheries, Dr Nchimbi said President Samia has increased the sector’s budget, enabling the implementation of major projects, including the construction of a modern fishing port in Lindi worth over 280bn/-.

He explained that the first phase of the project, which includes a jetty, ice plant and fish storage facilities has been completed, allowing local communities to start benefiting from the improved infrastructure.

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According to Dr Nchimbi, the next phase as outlined in CCM’s manifesto will see the completion of the Kilwa Masoko fishing port, along with the construction of a modern fish market, cold storage facilities and advanced drying racks to ensure fish products meet international quality standards.

He added that the government will also provide training to fishermen to boost productivity and ensure access to modern fishing equipment.

“All these initiatives aim to increase the value of fish, raise fishermen’s incomes and contribute to both family and national economic growth,” Dr Nchimbi said.

Turning to business and investment, Dr Nchimbi said the government plans to build three major markets for petty traders, a modern bus terminal and designated truck parking areas to improve trade and enhance local revenue collection.

He also stressed on the Kilwa’s historical importance, describing it as one of the world’s oldest coastal towns, renowned for its trade in ivory, gold and later the slave trade between the 9th and 14th centuries. Dr Nchimbi added that legacy continues through prominent leaders who hail from Kilwa, including Ambassador Ali Mchumo and the late Kingunge Ngombale Mwiru.

On agriculture, Dr Nchimbi said the government has been providing free sulphur fertiliser to cashew farmers, which has helped to increase production from 30,000 tonnes to over 92,000 tonnes in the last season.

He further noted that between 15 to 20 kilogrammes out of every 100 kilogrammes of cashew nuts produced in Tanzania come from Lindi Region. He also emphasised the government’s collaboration with crop boards to ensure farmers continue to enjoy fair prices.