Tanzania Launches First Deep-Sea Fishing Vessel to Boost Blue Economy
In a significant move to strengthen the fisheries sector and advance the blue economy, President Samia Suluhu Hassan officially launched the first deep-sea fishing vessel of the Tanzania Fisheries Corporation (Tafico) on April 25, 2026. The event took place at the Mwalimu Nyerere Campus in Kigamboni District, Dar es Salaam.
“This step reflects a vision and strategic transformation in the control and management of deep-sea resources,” said President Hassan during her remarks. She emphasized that the initiative is part of broader efforts to implement policies and strategies aimed at increasing the contribution of the fisheries sector and the blue economy to the national economy.
The president highlighted the long-standing challenge of foreign vessels and companies dominating the harvesting of deep-sea resources, which has limited the country’s ability to fully benefit from these resources in terms of revenue and public welfare. “Equipping our fisheries corporation with modern equipment and technology is essential and necessary,” she stated. “We will continue doing so to enable the country and its citizens to benefit from opportunities arising from deep-sea fishing resources.”
President Hassan outlined several potential benefits of the initiative, including job creation for young people, increased government revenue, improved nutrition and public health, and strengthening value chains and supply systems across other economic sectors.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties Through Maritime Cooperation
During the event, Japan’s Ambassador to Tanzania, Yoichi Mikami, praised the launch of the vessel, which was built in Japan. He noted that the collaboration between the two countries demonstrates their strong and long-standing relationship. “I am pleased to witness this historic event today,” he said. “I expect that the capacity of this vessel will improve operational efficiency, including increased fish availability.”
Ambassador Mikami also highlighted Japan’s longstanding support for Tanzania’s livestock sector since the 1980s, including facilitating the construction of market infrastructure in key locations such as Dar es Salaam, Mwanza (Kirumba), and Malindi in Unguja.
Government Commitment to Fisheries Development
Minister for Livestock and Fisheries, Dr Bashiru Ally, provided further insights into the government’s ongoing efforts to develop the fisheries sector. He mentioned that the construction of the Kilwa Masoko fishing port in Lindi Region has reached 97 percent completion, with plans for its operation to be handed over to the private sector. The remaining work involves testing equipment before the port is officially commissioned.
Dr Bashiru also emphasized that the launch of the vessel reflects President Hassan’s commitment to ensuring the country benefits from deep-sea fishing resources. “This initiative is expected to increase production in marine areas, particularly in deep-sea fishing, improve the availability of high-quality fish for export markets, and ultimately boost the sector’s contribution to national economic growth,” he said.
Investments in Fisheries and Aquaculture
The minister also announced that the government continues to make significant investments in capture fisheries and aquaculture through the Tanzania Marine Fisheries and Aquaculture Development Project. This project, valued at $117 million, will be implemented over five years from 2025 to 2030 in partnership between the government and the World Bank.
Its objectives include adding value to fisheries products by developing infrastructure such as markets, landing sites, fish processing plants, and supporting training and research. “This project will play a crucial role in enhancing the productivity and sustainability of the fisheries sector,” said Dr Bashiru.
Future Prospects and Economic Impact
With the launch of the deep-sea fishing vessel and ongoing investments in fisheries development, Tanzania is taking concrete steps toward securing its share of the vast resources found in its coastal waters. These initiatives are not only expected to boost the economy but also create new opportunities for employment, improve food security, and promote sustainable practices in the fishing industry.
As the country moves forward, the focus remains on ensuring that local communities and businesses can benefit from the growing potential of the blue economy. By leveraging modern technology and international partnerships, Tanzania aims to transform its fisheries sector into a cornerstone of national economic growth.
