(Zanzibar) – Zanzibar has surpassed the global average for fish consumption, reaching 22 kilograms per person annually compared to the world average of 21 kilograms. This milestone reflects the island’s growing reliance on fisheries as a primary food source.
The achievement was highlighted during the three-day African Network Conference on Fish Safety and Fishing Technology, held in Zanzibar on November 14, 2024. Zanzibar’s Minister of Blue Economy and Fisheries, Shaaban Ali Othman, announced that fish catch volumes had risen to 100,000 tons in 2024, up from 80,000 tons the previous year.
“This increase in fish consumption among Zanzibaris is attributed to higher fish availability and reflects global standards,” he said, emphasizing the importance of fish in providing essential protein and promoting good health.
The minister also expressed pride in hosting the conference, noting that the archipelago’s geographic location and reliance on fishing make such discussions particularly relevant.
Coordinator and fisheries expert Hashim Chande Muumin praised government efforts to enforce guidelines promoting sustainable fishing. These guidelines include restricting the harvest of underdeveloped fish to protect marine ecosystems. He added that the conference would benefit Tanzania by introducing advanced fishing technologies to reduce fish losses and promote efficiency.
Dr. Zakalia Ali Khamis, Director General of the Zanzibar Fisheries Research Institute (Zafiri), assured attendees of the safety of Zanzibar’s fish based on recent studies. “We have trained fishers in safe and sustainable fishing practices, ensuring continued access to quality food,” he said.
He stressed the importance of balancing fishing practices with environmental sustainability to maintain the region’s fish supplies. Zafiri’s activities align with the Fisheries Act No. 7 of 2010, which sets clear standards for allowable fish catches to protect marine resources.
The conference’s outcomes are expected to improve food security, enhance environmental conservation, and equip fishers with technologies that minimize losses and bolster income.
Key Fish Consumption Data
| Metric | Global Average | Zanzibar |
|---|---|---|
| Fish Consumption (kg/year) | 21 | 22 |
| Annual Fish Catch (tons) | N/A | 100,000 (2024) |