Kikwete: University of Dar es Salaam to become Africa’s marine science research Hub

Zanzibar. The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) Chancellor, Jakaya Kikwete has revealed plans to position the oldest higher education institution in the country as Africa’s leading marine science research hub.

The ambitious vision centres on the ongoing renovation and expansion of the Institute of Marine Sciences (IMS) in Zanzibar, a facility that former President Kikwete believes will place Tanzania at the forefront of marine research on the continent.

During his visit to the IMS site at Buyu on December 8, 2024, Kikwete expressed confidence that the project will not only revive the institute but also solidify UDSM’s reputation as a centre of excellence.

“This is a unique centre, and I believe that once completed, we will brand our university as a key institution for critical marine and aquatic research,” he said.

The IMS renovation, funded by an $8 million allocation from the World Bank’s Higher Education for Economic Transformation (HEET) project, marks the revival of a dream that had been dormant for decades.

Kikwete revealed that construction at the Buyu site had stalled for over 20 years, leaving the foundation exposed and deteriorating.

“When I visited the site shortly after becoming Chancellor, I saw that construction had been abandoned, and the foundation was discoloured after years of neglect. That is when we sought funds to complete the project,” he explained.

The 18-month construction project, expected to conclude in August 2025, involves two academic and administrative buildings, lecture theatres, laboratories, classrooms, a conference hall and hostels.

Upon completion, the IMS will accommodate 280 students, up from 139 currently.

With its vast coastline and maritime zones, Tanzania holds significant potential in fisheries, aquaculture, marine tourism, and energy exploration.

However, realising this potential requires robust research and innovation to ensure sustainable resource use.

“Marine science institutes are critical for generating data and insights that guide informed decision-making. They help balance economic growth with environmental preservation,” said deputy coordinator for HEET at UDSM, Dr Liberato Haule.

He added that the IMS renovation will enhance research capabilities, enabling the institute to support sustainable fishery practices and train experts in marine resource management.

The upgraded IMS is also expected to strengthen Tanzania’s resilience to climate change, a pressing issue for coastal and island communities.

“A strong foundation in marine research ensures sustainable exploitation of aquatic resources and contributes to economic growth,” he said.

Kikwete emphasised that the IMS will fill a critical gap in East Africa, where no similar institution exists.

“As was the goal of the East African Marine Fisheries Research Organisation (EAMFRO), this remains our aspiration—to serve as a major research hub for marine sciences,” he said.

Experts agree that the IMS has the potential to become a cornerstone for marine research in the region.

 The institute’s modern facilities will support advanced studies in marine and coastal resources management, marine technology and innovation, and geosciences.

UDSM’s Vice Chancellor, Prof William Anangisye, highlighted the transformative impact of the project on higher education.

“The completion of the IMS will expand opportunities for students to pursue advanced degrees in marine sciences, strengthening their expertise and positioning Tanzania as a leader in this field,” he said.

The World Academy of Sciences has already recognised IMS as an emerging leader in sub-Saharan Africa’s marine research landscape, thanks to its collaborative ties with international organisations.

The IMS renovation project reflects Tanzania’s commitment to advancing marine science as a driver of sustainable development.

It also supports local communities by promoting sustainable fishing practices and fostering economic growth.

“This facility will not only boost Tanzania’s blue economy but also elevate UDSM’s standing in global academia,” Kikwete said.

His vision is to create a research hub that competes with the world’s best, ensuring that African solutions are developed for African challenges.

The potential impact extends beyond Tanzania’s borders.

By training local scientists and conducting cutting-edge research, the IMS will contribute to regional capacity-building and support East Africa’s collective efforts to manage marine resources sustainably.

“This is the strategy to ensure that we continue competing with other universities globally in various fields, including marine sciences. I am confident that we are on the right path,” Kikwete said.