U.S. and Tanzania strengthen partnership in fishing sector

“South Korea hopes to help the Democratic Republic of Congo achieve its development through the knowledge we’ve gained,” said Joeng Hong Geun, Korean Ambassador to the DRC, following a meeting with Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Grâce Yamba Kazadi.

Jennifer Littlejohn, U.S. Acting Assistant Secretary of State for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs, highlighted the issue: “In too many places, large foreign fishing fleets and some local bad actors are bringing in catches well above sustainable limits.”

The fishing industry is a cornerstone of Tanzania’s economy, employing over 4 million people. However, IUU fishing results in an annual loss of approximately USD 142.8 million.

To address this, the U.S. is piloting electronic monitoring systems on deep-sea vessels and targeting blast fishing practices.

Additionally, the U.S. Embassy in Tanzania emphasized the urgent need to protect fish stocks, stating on Twitter, “A quarter of fish caught in the waters of East Africa are caught illegally, threatening marine life and the blue economy.”

The U.S. and Tanzania also collaborate through the annual Cutlass Express naval exercise, enhancing maritime cooperation and security.

Pooja Bissoonauthsing from the UN Office on Drugs and Crime remarked on the importance of international cooperation in combating maritime crimes.

The U.S. has provided Tanzanian authorities with coastal patrol boats equipped with advanced tracking technology, boosting their maritime enforcement capabilities.

Through the SAFE Seas initiative, Tanzanian law enforcement officers receive specialized training to combat IUU fishing, resulting in increased arrests and a decline in illegal fishing operations.

The U.S. also offers educational programs promoting sustainable fishing practices to local communities, ensuring long-term fish stock conservation.

This partnership aims to continue combating IUU fishing, securing Tanzania’s fishing industry and promoting sustainable practices.

“For over six decades, Tanzania has been a beneficiary of invaluable support from the United States of America,” said Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan. “We welcome the United States’ support on fishing.”