Govt eyes job creation through fisheries, livestock investments

DODOMA: PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan yesterday said that the government is set to revolutionise the fisheries and livestock sectors through strategic investments, including value addition, with the aim of expanding international markets and creating more jobs.

She said the government focus is to ensuring the sectors contribute effectively to the national economy.

Speaking on the government’s strategies in the livestock sector during the inauguration of the 13th Parliament, President Samia said efforts are already underway to identify opportunities and implement reforms in animal husbandry.

Among the government’s major commitments, she highlighted the plan to expand surveyed and designated grazing areas from 3.46 million acres to 6 million acres.

“This measure will help prevent conflicts between livestock keepers and other land users, while increasing the production of animal fodder as we move towards modern livestock management,” said President Samia.

To open up international markets, President Samia added that the government will continue strengthening livestock vaccination and identification systems to improve the quality of livestock products and secure global recognition.

She added that the government will also enhance livestock breeds and develop essential infrastructure, including watering dams, dipping facilities, slaughterhouses and other key structures that support livestock keeping.

She pointed out that the goal is to establish a full value chain for livestock products to penetrate foreign markets.

“Let us move away from looking at a cow for its mooing, instead, let us focus on the weight and taste of the meat, the volume of milk, the quality of the hide and the strength of the hooves and horns. That is the perspective that will transform the livestock sector,” she said.

Turning to the fisheries sector, President Samia said that the government aims to increase the benefits derived from deep sea fishing and fisheries in the Great Lakes.

She underscored that the government will complete the construction of the Kilwa Fishing Port, which is expected to create around 30,000 jobs.

Another modern fishing port will also be built in Bagamoyo, integrated with a fish-processing industrial zone.

Moreover, the Head of State said the government will review the fisheries licensing system to ensure the country fully benefits from opportunities.

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She said that her government will continue providing loans for fishing boats, fishing gear, fish storage containers and drying facilities.

President Samia also said the government will invest further in fish cages and fishponds to help more citizens increase their income and improve their livelihoods.

She added that the government will seek solutions to the challenge of fish food technology, which has long been a major obstacle for aquaculture farmers.

Furthermore, President Samia stressed the importance of prioritising the development of the blue economy and the fisheries sector, including modern marine farming.