By Jackson Isdory, CMU
Date: 28 January 2025
The President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, His Excellency Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, has reaffirmed the government’s steadfast commitment to advancing its pioneering Blue Economy policy through rigorous scientific research and innovation.
President Mwinyi made this declaration during the foundation stone-laying ceremony for the new academic and administrative building at the Institute of Marine Sciences (IMS) of the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) on 5th January 2025 at the Institute’s premises in Buyu, Zanzibar.
Scientific Research as a Pillar of Blue Economy Development
“Our primary policy focus is the blue economy, which encompasses key sectors such as tourism, fishing, and seaweed farming. This Institute of Marine Sciences is uniquely positioned to provide the expertise necessary to drive these sectors forward,” President Mwinyi stated.
He emphasized that the blue economy is the foundation of Zanzibar’s long-term development strategy, underscoring the need for evidence-based policymaking to ensure sustainability.
“We expect IMS to deliver groundbreaking research that informs policies aimed at transforming our blue economy. Scientifically driven policies will foster sustainable development and long-term prosperity for our people,” he added.
Acknowledgment of Visionary Leadership
During the event, UDSM Chancellor and former President of Tanzania, H.E. Dr. Jakaya Kikwete, expressed gratitude to both the Tanzanian and Zanzibar governments for their instrumental role in facilitating the construction of the IMS facility.
The project is being developed under the Higher Education for Economic Transformation (HEET) Project, funded by the Government of Tanzania through a soft loan from the World Bank.
“This milestone would not have been possible without H.E. President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s strategic decision to include IMS in the HEET project. It required significant effort and discussion, but President Samia ensured that the Institute was prioritized,” said Kikwete.
He highlighted that securing a title deed was crucial for the World Bank’s approval of construction funds. “I sincerely appreciate Your Excellency President Mwinyi’s wise decision to authorize the title deed for the land in Buyu,” he noted.
Former President Kikwete also praised President Mwinyi for ensuring the full construction of the road leading to the Institute, which will benefit both IMS and the surrounding community.
Expanding Access to Higher Education and Skills Development
Minister for Education, Science, and Technology, Hon. Prof. Adolf Mkenda, revealed that 16 new university campuses are under construction across Tanzania as part of the HEET project, aiming to enhance access to higher education.
He urged universities to design degree programs that prioritize employability and skill development to address youth unemployment.
Meanwhile, Zanzibar’s Minister for Education and Vocational Training, Hon. Lela Muhamed Mussa, stated that curriculum reforms across all educational levels were being implemented to equip students with qualifications relevant to marine sciences and fisheries studies.
“We aim to ensure local youth possess the skills required to engage in ocean-related economic activities. For example, children in areas like Kojani and Tumbatu already have traditional fishing skills—our goal is to enhance their academic knowledge and professionalism,” she explained.
Enhancing Research and Capacity-Building
Zanzibar’s Minister for Blue Economy and Fisheries, Hon. Shaaban Ali Othman, underscored the university’s role in developing innovative solutions and evidence-based policies to drive Zanzibar’s economic growth.
“We greatly rely on this institute not only for human resource development but also for research and innovative ideas to guide our economic trajectory,” Hon. Othman noted.
UDSM Vice Chancellor, Prof. William A. L. Anangisye, highlighted that the IMS expansion will significantly boost student enrollment from 140 to 300. The new facilities will enhance the institute’s ability to conduct advanced research and provide expert guidance in blue economy and marine sciences.
“With 50% of the construction already completed and TZS 4.2 billion disbursed to the contractor, we are on track to finalize the project as scheduled.
Our determination to complete this project on time will ensure that its benefits materialize as soon as possible. This initiative will enable IMS to contribute to national and regional development,” Prof. Anangisye affirmed.
A Commitment to Sustainable Development
The World Bank Resident Representative, Mr. Martin Kachingwe, commended the Tanzanian government for its unwavering dedication to education and development, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between governments, universities, and stakeholders.
“The HEET project aims to make higher education more accessible, particularly for marginalized communities. This initiative strengthens universities like UDSM, enabling them to provide transformative education, research, and innovations that drive national economic growth. We are confident that these investments will empower students for a brighter future,” Mr. Kachingwe remarked.
Through research, capacity-building, and strategic collaborations, UDSM has played a crucial role in addressing challenges and unlocking the potential of Tanzania’s fisheries and aquaculture sector.
This milestone underscores Zanzibar’s and Tanzania’s collective commitment to leveraging marine resources sustainably to drive economic and social transformation through science, education, and progressive policies.
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