Mafia. The Mafia District Commissioner in Coast Region, Ms Aziza Mangosongo, has called on members of the public to work closely with the government in exposing illegal fishing activities, warning that the vice continues to threaten marine resources and livelihoods.
Her call comes amid growing concern over the persistence of illegal fishing practices across the country, which have contributed to declining fish stocks and undermined incomes for coastal communities dependent on the sector.
According to an audit report by the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC) covering the period between 2018 and 2024, Tanzania loses an estimated Sh15.16 billion annually due to illegal fishing, unregistered vessels and inadequate data systems.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ capacity-building workshop on conservation and co-management of marine resources in Mafia District, Ms Mangosongo said community interference has in some cases hindered enforcement efforts.
“Laws have already been enacted by Parliament. When experts move to apprehend illegal fishers, the public must allow the law to take its course. We should not interfere in such critical matters,” she said.
She emphasised the need for citizens to take responsibility in protecting marine resources, noting that conservation is essential for sustainable development and long-term economic benefits.
Meanwhile, the Manager of the Marine Parks and Reserves Unit (MPRU), Mr Emmanuel Sweke, commended ongoing conservation initiatives in the district and underscored the importance of sustained collaboration among stakeholders.
The workshop, organised jointly by the Marine Parks and Reserves Unit, the University of Dar es Salaam through the Institute of Marine Sciences, GIZ, ZMT and the University of Toliara, brought together experts, village leaders and ward executive officers.
Participants pledged to intensify community education and strengthen cooperation with authorities to safeguard marine ecosystems for present and future generations.
Juani Village Chairperson, Mr Mwichande Hassan, said the training had improved local capacity to raise awareness, and called for similar programmes to be conducted regularly to expand community benefits.