Fishermen get 160 modern boats, worth 11.5bn/-

DODOMA: OVER 3,000 Tanzanian fishermen have received 160 modern fishing boats, worth 11.5bn/- to boost their livelihoods.

The initiative, which began last year, has provided much-needed support to fishermen, particularly women, who make up over a third of the beneficiaries.

This was said in the National Assembly yesterday by Deputy Minister for Livestock and Fisheries, Alexander Mnyeti while responding to a basic question by Special Seats MP Mariam Nyoka (CCM) who wanted to know how fishermen were involved in the government’s plan to purchase fishing boats.

“In the implementation of this project, fishermen were involved in various stages, including identifying needs, being informed about applying for boat loans and being mobilised and educated about the opportunities available in the project,” he said.

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A team of experts from the ministry visited fishermen in their areas across the country to get their opinions and suggestions on the size of the boats and their equipment and to advertise in various ways, including through the media, according to him.

He said that the boats being distributed are equipped with fish finders, a technology that will significantly improve fishing yields.

“We have listened to the concerns of our fishermen and these boats are a direct result of their input,” said Deputy Minister Mnyeti.

He added, “By providing them with modern equipment, we are not only boosting their incomes but also ensuring sustainable fishing practices.”