Zanzibar’s Blue Economy: Mwinyi vows bigger boats, better markets for fishermen

Unguja. Zanzibar’s presidential candidate for Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, has pledged that if re‑elected, his government will prioritise enabling fishermen to venture into the open ocean to increase their incomes and strengthen the economy.

Dr Mwinyi made the remarks on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, during a visit to traders, fishermen, and entrepreneurs at Malindi Fish Market as part of his ongoing campaign tour.

He said the fisheries sector plays a vital role in improving livelihoods and that the government will continue investing in infrastructure, modern fishing equipment, and training for fishermen.

“Fishermen have told us they need larger boats to venture into the open ocean. We have taken note and will act to enable them to reach such fishing grounds and increase their catches,” he said.

The presidential candidate said the initiative forms part of his “blue economy” agenda, which has been a priority throughout his first term.

He recalled that in 2020, while seeking election into the first term, he pledged to support fishermen, seaweed farmers, and related entrepreneurs.

“You have seen our delivery, providing boats, fish finders, nets, and other tools to increase productivity,” he said.

Dr Mwinyi noted that statistics show improved fish availability and reiterated that the government will continue supporting fishermen, seaweed farmers, and entrepreneurs to enhance incomes.

For entrepreneurs, he said the government will continue developing markets and landing sites in Unguja and Pemba to provide proper trading facilities and access to capital.

He urged voters to support him and other CCM candidates to advance Zanzibar’s development agenda for 2025–2030.

CCM Zanzibar Deputy Secretary‑General, Dr Mohammed Said Dimwa, said the party began its five‑year journey by empowering entrepreneurs with adequate trading facilities, a promise it has delivered.

He said CCM is now seeking a fresh mandate to govern for another five years to continue delivering development.

He stressed that choosing CCM and its candidates means choosing progress for Zanzibar and Tanzania at large.

Earlier, Malindi Fish Market stallholders’ chairman, Mr Nia Juma Mbwana, said that although they have a fish market, their trading space faces challenges due to being 10 years old and in poor condition.

He appealed for improved stalls, toilet facilities, clean water access, and loans to expand their businesses.

Mr Mbwana added that the fishing sector would greatly contribute to Zanzibar’s economy and assured Dr Mwinyi of strong support in the October 29 polls.