Both the Union and Zanzibar governments have identified the blue economy as a critical sector for socio-economic transformation. PHOTO | FILE
Dar es Salaam. Tanzania is making bold strides toward realising its blue economy vision, with a focus on research-based policies to unlock the potential of its vast marine resources, The Citizen has learnt.
This approach, led by the University of Dar es Salaam’s Institute of Marine Sciences (IMS), aims to position the country as a regional leader in sustainable ocean-based development.
Both the Union and Zanzibar governments have identified the blue economy as a critical sector for socio-economic transformation. They believe that through enhanced research and innovation, Tanzania can harness its marine resources to achieve inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
Speaking during the laying of the foundation stone for a new IMS facility on Sunday, President of Zanzibar, Dr Hussein Mwinyi, emphasised the importance of scientific approaches in implementing the blue economy policy.
“We are determined to scientifically implement the blue economy policy,” he said. “Our expectation is that this institution will deliver research findings that will inform policy development to ensure sustainable use of marine resources.”
He said the policy encompasses several sectors, including tourism, fishing, and seaweed farming. “We aim to formulate policies based on scientific evidence to ensure development.”
IMS is undergoing significant expansion under the Higher Education for Economic Transformation (HEET) project.
The construction of a new academic and administration building at IMS is expected to strengthen its capacity to conduct research and train experts in marine sciences as highlighted by the institute’s vice chancellor, Prof William Anangisye, noting that the facility will increase student enrolment from 140 to 300.
“The new facility will enhance our capacity to conduct research and offer expert advice in the areas of blue economy and marine sciences. This aligns with our mission to strengthen institutional capacity and contribute to national development.”
The expansion of IMS reflects the government’s commitment to positioning Tanzania as a hub for the blue economy.
Retired President Jakaya Kikwete, who is also the UDSM Chancellor, expressed gratitude to the government for including IMS in the HEET project. He revealed that the institute’s inclusion in the project required presidential intervention.
“Without President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s decision to include IMS in the HEET project, we wouldn’t have reached this stage…I have no doubt that this institution, the only specialized in the region, will make us a hub of marine research and growth,” he noted.
President Hassan has consistently underscored the significance of the blue economy in Tanzania’s Development Vision 2050 as well.
Speaking during the diplomatic Sherry Party in February 2024, she stated, “Our focus on the blue economy is unwavering, as we recognise the vast potential our marine resources hold for sustainable development.”
Her message echoed her remarks during her meeting with Indonesian President Joko Widodo in August 2023.
“Tanzania is keen to learn from Indonesia’s experience in harnessing the blue economy to drive economic growth and improve livelihoods,” she said.
Experts believe that Tanzania’s strategic geographical position gives it a comparative advantage in harnessing marine resources.
The waters off Zanzibar attract thousands of tourists annually and are rich in valuable commodities such as seafood, energy resources, and transport opportunities.
Manager of the Boosting the Blue Economy Project at VSO, Mr Photunatus Nyundo, noted that the blue economy contributed $7.2 billion to Tanzania’s Gross Value Added (GVA) in 2020 and employed approximately 2 million people.
He stressed that sustainable use of marine resources aligns with global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“The blue economy has immense potential to create jobs, enhance food security, and promote sustainable development. However, there are gaps that need to be addressed through research and policy,” Mr Nyundo said during a recent forum.
Zanzibar’s Minister for Education and Vocational Training, Lela Muhamed Mussa, highlighted that the education curriculum from primary to secondary levels has been designed to prepare students to join marine and fisheries-related colleges.
“We want locals to get the opportunity to join these colleges and gain the necessary skills for marine-related economic activities,” she said.
To support the blue economy drive, Tanzania’s Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries has allocated substantial resources to enhance fish farming and deep-sea fishing.
The government plans to supply 320 modern fishing boats to small and medium enterprises to boost productivity.
“We need to have research findings that will show us how to carry out maritime activities in a modern way and what equipment should be used. By using institutions like these, this is the only way the country can achieve its goal, otherwise, it will just be politics,” said marine science expert, Mr Mussa Athuman, a resident of Zanzibar.
Furthermore, Tanzania has entered international partnerships to support its blue economy initiatives. In June 2024, South Korea agreed to provide Tanzania with $2.5 billion in concessional loans over five years.
The agreement includes accords on sustainable use of ocean resources and development of critical minerals like nickel, lithium, and graphite.
Experts agree that achieving Tanzania’s blue economy vision requires collaborative efforts from all stakeholders.
“By strengthening research institutions like IMS, the country can formulate effective policies to sustainably manage marine resources and maximise economic benefits,” said Mr Athuman.
With ongoing efforts to strengthen research and innovation in marine sciences, Tanzania is setting itself on a path to becoming a model for sustainable blue economy growth in the region.
