Tanga Region Transforms Fisheries Sector with New International Fish Market
The Tanzanian government has officially received land for a groundbreaking international fish market in Pangani District, Tanga Region, marking a significant milestone for local fishing communities.
Located in Kipumbwi Ward, the new market represents a strategic investment aimed at addressing critical challenges faced by sardine traders and fish processors. The project is expected to revolutionize the local fisheries sector by providing a safe and reliable business environment for over 10,000 households.
Regional authorities highlighted the project’s potential to dramatically reduce post-harvest losses, which currently reach up to 30 percent, particularly during challenging rainy seasons. The market will feature modern infrastructure including ice-making plants, cold rooms, and advanced fish-drying facilities to enhance productivity and resource protection.
The government’s investment of 1.3 billion Tanzanian shillings underscores a comprehensive strategy to strengthen the fisheries value chain. This initiative comes at a time when the fishing sector is experiencing rapid growth, with employment in the industry expanding from 4.5 million in 2020 to more than 6 million this year.
Local traders and processors have expressed optimism about the project. Many expect the market to address long-standing issues such as price exploitation and seasonal storage challenges. The new facility aims to create a more transparent and fair trading environment for small-scale fishers and traders.
By establishing this modern market infrastructure, the government seeks to transform the fisheries sector, enhance economic opportunities, and provide sustainable support to local fishing communities in the Tanga Region.
