Call for stronger marine research
ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR and China have launched a joint technical initiative to strengthen marine research and scientific data collection, aiming to protect fragile coastal ecosystems and support the island nation’s expanding blue economy.
Opening a 14-day training program for marine specialists in Zanzibar, Deputy Minister for Blue Economy and Fisheries Mboja Ramadhan Mshenga said reliable data is crucial to prevent overexploitation and guide sustainable ocean management.
“Scientific research provides direction for the proper use of the ocean and helps create a safe environment for the sea and its organisms,” Mshenga said.
She said reliable scientific information would enable authorities and other stakeholders to make informed decisions on marine resources and ensure that the ocean continues supporting livelihoods and economic activities.
Zanzibar has prioritised the blue economy, spanning commercial fisheries, aquaculture and coastal tourism as a central driver of its national growth strategy. However, regulatory authorities across East Africa have struggled with limited technical capacity to monitor offshore marine stocks and track changing oceanographic conditions.
Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania Li Qianghua said the initiative would transfer modern data-gathering techniques to local specialists, helping Zanzibar balance conservation with economic development. Chinese experts from the People’s Republic of China are delivering the technical sessions.
ALSO READ: PM champions sports for regional integration
Director-General of the Fisheries and Marine Resources Research Institute Dr Zakaria Ali Khamis said the 14-day training programme was being delivered by experts from the People’s Republic of China.
He said the training would equip participants with skills that could help marine users make better use of ocean resources while ensuring they were properly managed.
According to Dr Khamis, better scientific knowledge was essential if Zanzibar was to maximise the benefits of its marine resources while protecting them from unsustainable use.
He said the knowledge and skills acquired through the programme would help improve decision-making and strengthen management of the marine environment.
