Uplifting the livelihoods of local fishers in Zanzibar: Prospects in blue economy policy frameworks

Ayoub M. Mahmoud

doi:10.51867/ajernet.7.2.102

Authors

Ayoub M. Mahmoud Makerere University, Uganda

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51867/ajernet.7.2.102

Keywords:

Blue Economy, Local Fishers, Livelihoods, Traditional Knowledge, ZADEP

Abstract

The integration of the Blue Economy agenda into the Zanzibar Development Plan (ZADEP) aims to alleviate poverty and enhance the living standards of Zanzibaris. While blue economy initiatives have sparked rapid transformation across key economic sectors in Zanzibar, the incorporation of traditional fishing knowledge which is critical to the sustainable livelihoods of artisanal fishers remains insufficiently addressed within current policy frameworks in Zanzibar. This paper reviews relevant literature to explore the potential of the Blue Economy in improving the livelihoods of local fishers, with specific reference to fisheries policies in Zanzibar. NVIVO 12 qualitative data analysis software was employed for content analysis. Findings indicate that although the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar has established a comprehensive policy framework for fisheries as a core component of the Blue Economy, the Fisheries Master Plan lacks clear commitment to promoting traditional knowledge for enterprise development mainly for small-scale fisheries. This gap in policy risks the marginalization of traditional practices that are essential for sustaining local enterprises and the livelihoods of artisanal fishers across the twin islands of Unguja and Pemba. Accordingly, this study calls for the harmonization of key policy documents governing the fisheries sector to ensure consistent recognition and integration of traditional knowledge. Such alignment is crucial for promoting inclusive Blue Economy development and securing the active participation of local fishers throughout all stages of the Blue Economy value chain in Zanzibar.

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