DSFA:It’s digital innovation in marine research

ZANZIBAR: DIRECTOR General of the Deep-Sea Fishing Authority (DSFA), Dr Emmanuel Sweke, has called on the Institute of Marine Sciences (IMS) to focus its research efforts on digital innovation, creativity and knowledgebased approaches.

Dr Sweke made the call during the opening ceremony of the 10th Marine Science Research and Innovation Week exhibition at the main campus of the IMS of University of Dar Es Salaam at Buyu coastal Village, Chukwani area.

Dr Sweke represented the Deputy Director General of the Authority, Dr Saleh Yahya at the event.

“Such research would yield impactful results that can enhance the management of marine science in the country, contributing significantly to national economic growth, especially in the blue economy sector, which is a key pillar of Zanzibar’s economic policy,” he said.

Dr Sweke further urged the institute to engage a wide range of marine science stakeholders, including seaweed farmers, by sharing research findings that could help improve their economic well-being.

Earlier, the Director of the IMS-UDSM in Zanzibar, Dr Mwita Mwangora said this year’s exhibition is focused on promoting education in digital innovation within marine science, which is a cornerstone of Zanzibar’s economy.

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He said: “The exhibition also aims to raise awareness about investing in digital research, fostering collaboration with various marine science institutions and showcasing student projects in the field.”

Meanwhile, stakeholders who are attending the exhibition expressed that the event provides an opportunity to learn about various marine science topics and to network with others in the sector, paving the way for discussions and strategies to advance marine science in Zanzibar.

Presenting a topic at the conference, Zanzibar Fisheries Department Statistician, Nassor Abdallah Nassor said the move is one of the ways of building capacity for technology development in the important sectors of fishing, aquaculture and other activities that support the sustainability of marine resources.

The 10th annual Marine Science Research and Innovation Week is being held under the theme: “Harness Innovative Technology and Research to Promote Sustainable Development in Marine Sciences.”