PM directs authorities to ensure patrol boats are well-maintained for operations

DAR ES SALAAM: PRIME Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba has directed ministries and institutions operating patrol boats to set aside adequate funds in their budgets to ensure the vessels remain operational, well-maintained and ready for security operations.

The Minister issued the directive earlier today, July 31, 2026, in Dar es Salaam during the handover and launch of two modern patrol boats designed to combat maritime crimes in Tanzania’s territorial waters and the Great Lakes region.

Speaking at the launching, he said that the government had invested heavily in acquiring modern security equipment, making it necessary for responsible institutions to ensure the assets are fully utilised to protect citizens and safeguard national security.

“Patrol boats must remain available at all times for surveillance, rescue operations and emergency response,” he said, warning that financial constraints should not hinder their operations.

Additionally, he directed operators and managers of the vessels to conduct regular maintenance in line with technical guidelines to extend their lifespan and ensure continued efficiency.

Moreover, the PM called for coordinated use of the boats under the National Maritime Crime Response Framework, urging institutions involved in maritime security to work together and avoid duplication of responsibilities.

He further instructed all institutions expected to participate in the National Joint Operations Centre to submit their representatives within two weeks to enable the centre to become fully operational.

“Stronger cooperation among Union institutions would help close loopholes exploited by criminals involved in illegal migration, piracy, drug trafficking, human trafficking, illegal fishing and smuggling of natural resources,” he said.

Furthermore, the Premier thanked the government of Japan, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and other development partners for supporting the project, which he said had delivered benefits beyond the purchase of patrol boats, including development of a national maritime crime response guideline, construction of fish-drying infrastructure, seaweed farming training and capacity building for Tanzanian experts.

Meanwhile, Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Policy, Parliament, Coordination and Persons with Disabilities), Prof Palamagamba Kabudi, said the project was a key step in strengthening maritime security and protecting Tanzania’s blue economy.

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He noted that increasing insecurity in international shipping routes, including disruptions linked to attacks in the Red Sea, had highlighted the need for countries to strengthen maritime surveillance and protect trade routes.

Prof Kabudi said the project had delivered two patrol, communication and rescue boats, BP Sea Fish No. 2 and BP Sea Fish No. 3 alongside sea trials and specialised training for Tanzanian personnel on operation, maintenance and management of the vessels.

The project has also supported coastal communities, particularly in Mkinga District, through blue economy training and group management programmes aimed at improving livelihoods.

The newly launched boats are expected to strengthen security along Tanzania’s coastline while supporting economic activities in coastal communities.