Z’bar fishing sector records over 100 pc growth in four years

ZANZIBAR: THE fishing sector has recorded an exponential growth in the past four years, with 107 and 94 per cent growth in fish and seaweed, respectively, the House of Representatives was told here on Wednesday.

Blue Economy and Fishery Minister Shaaban Ali Othman informed the House that during the 2020- 2024 period, Zanzibar witnessed exponential growth in construction of fishery infrastructure, citing construction of landing-piers and modern fish markets.

Answering a question from Mwanakwerekwe Representative Ameir Abdalla Ameir who sought to know the achievements recorded in the blue economy sector, the minister said Zanzibar has recorded remarkable development in the blue economy sector, thanks to the guidance of President Hussein Mwinyi.

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The minister informed the house that construction of six huge and modern fish landing-piers is set to commence at different areas in Unguja and Pemba, adding that plans are underway for construction of Shumba fishing port.

Pemba-based seaweed factory is expected to start production early next year, Minister Shaaban informed the house, adding that two more seaweed factories will be constructed alongside the completion of two sardine processing plants currently under construction.

He said there is impressive development in water transport sector, citing improvement and construction of new ports. The minister said oil and gas sector is progressing well, hinting that ten blocks are under prospects of getting strategic investors.