There are several reasons why marine fishing has not yet fully developed in Tanzania:
Narrow continental shelf and limited fish resources: Tanzania’s continental shelf is relatively narrow, which limits the availability of fish compared to countries with wider continental shelves. The limited fish resources make it challenging to sustain large-scale marine fishing operations.
Warm currents and impact on fish breeding: The warm current in Mozambique, such as the Mozambique Current, influences the coastal waters of Tanzania, leading to warmer temperatures. Warmer waters can disrupt the natural breeding patterns of fish species, affecting their abundance and distribution.
Competition from developed countries: Developed countries like Japan and Korea have advanced fishing facilities, technology, and larger fishing fleets. These countries may engage in fishing activities in international waters near Tanzania, potentially impacting local fishing communities and reducing access to fish resources.
Lack of capital for modern vessels and equipment: The high costs associated with purchasing modern fishing vessels, equipment, and technologies pose a significant barrier to the development of marine fishing in Tanzania. Limited access to capital prevents fishermen from upgrading their fishing methods and technologies, limiting their ability to operate efficiently and sustainably.
Inadequate transport network: Tanzania’s lack of a well-developed transport network, particularly in rural and interior areas, hampers the efficient distribution and trade of fish. Limited infrastructure, including roads and cold storage facilities, makes it difficult to transport fish from coastal regions to inland markets, impacting the economic viability of marine fishing.
These factors combined contribute to the slower development of marine fishing in Tanzania. However, it’s worth noting that Tanzania has taken steps to promote sustainable fisheries management, invest in infrastructure, and seek international cooperation to address some of these challenges and develop its fishing industry.
