Joseph Isangura
The Ministry of Fisheries has allocated a substantial budget for the acquisition of drones to address the escalating issues of piracy and illegal fishing in Lake Victoria. This initiative is a direct response to numerous complaints from fishermen who have been subjected to attacks and theft of their belongings. The Director of Aquatic Life at the Ministry of Fisheries, Nazael Mabala, emphasized the severity of these issues during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Mara Region.
Speaking at the meeting, Mabala stated, “The decision to invest in drone technology was driven by the urgent need to enhance the safety of our fishermen and protect our aquatic resources. The deployment of drones will enable us to monitor large areas of the lake more effectively, providing real-time surveillance and rapid response capabilities.”
The drones, equipped with advanced surveillance technology, will be instrumental in deterring illegal activities and ensuring the enforcement of fishing regulations. These unmanned aerial vehicles will patrol the vast waters of Lake Victoria, capturing high-resolution images and videos to detect and document instances of piracy and illegal fishing. The collected data will be used to coordinate with law enforcement agencies for swift action against offenders.
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In his address, Mara Regional Commissioner Colonel Evans Mtambi announced the launch of “Operation Sweep Away,” a comprehensive initiative aimed at eradicating illegal fishing activities in Lake Victoria. “Operation Sweep Away is our commitment to restoring order and ensuring sustainable fishing practices in the region. The use of drones will be a game-changer in our efforts to combat these challenges,” said Colonel Mtambi.
This development is part of the Ministry’s broader efforts to improve the fishing sector, which is crucial for the livelihoods of many communities around Lake Victoria. The Ministry has also outlined additional measures, including increasing investments in fishing infrastructure, enhancing quality control of fish products, and promoting sustainable fishing practices.
The Ministry’s budget for the fiscal year 2024/25 totals TZS 460.33 billion, a significant portion of which will support various development projects aimed at boosting the fishing industry. These projects include the procurement of three modern deep-sea fishing vessels equipped with the latest technology and two glass-bottom boats designed for both research and tourism purposes. These vessels will facilitate extensive research on fish populations and their habitats, contributing to the sustainable management of aquatic resources.
Moreover, the Ministry plans to establish a new Fisheries Resource Management Authority, which will oversee the sustainable development and management of fisheries resources. This authority will play a critical role in ensuring that fishing practices align with the principles of the Blue Economy, which emphasizes the sustainable use of ocean and inland water resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of aquatic ecosystems.
The implementation of these initiatives is expected to significantly enhance the safety and productivity of fishermen in Lake Victoria. By reducing incidents of piracy and illegal fishing, the Ministry aims to create a more secure and prosperous environment for the fishing community. Additionally, the enhanced surveillance and enforcement capabilities will help in the preservation of fish stocks, ensuring that future generations can continue to benefit from this vital resource.
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