Unguja. The Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar (RGZ) has made a stride in strengthening the blue economy sector by tabling the Fisheries Development and Marine Conservation Authority Bill, 2026.
The bill, signed by the Minister for Blue Economy and Fisheries, Mr Masoud Ali Mohamed, is expected to bring operational and economic revolutions to the Isles.
Presenting the objectives of the bill on Monday, September 14, 2026, in the House, the Acting Minister for Blue Economy and Fisheries, Mr Suleiman Masoud Makame, noted that the current 2010 Fisheries Act is outdated and has major weaknesses.
"Particularly in controlling illegal fishing and the collection of government revenue," he said.
He said the new structure aims to transform the current department into a full Authority, a matter that will increase operational efficiency, the capacity to enter productive contracts with stakeholders, and promote sustainable investment.
"The main goal of the government is to implement the concept of the Blue Economy practically by improving the value of marine products, establishing robust market systems, and creating numerous employment opportunities for citizens," he said.
Additionally, the bill emphasizes the conservation of natural resources, the protection of rare species, and the proper management of beaches so that these resources benefit current and future generations.
On his part, the Standing Committee on Economy and Investment of the House of Representatives, under its Chairperson Makame Mohammed Sufiani, presented its analysis after engaging various stakeholders, including university experts and fishing associations.
The committee recommended fundamental legal changes, including replacing the word "control" with "manage" in the operational clauses of the Authority.
Other key recommendations from the committee include incorporating the definition of ornamental fish and adding a member from universities to the Board of Directors to strengthen scientific expertise in the Authority's decisions.
"Likewise, the committee emphasized the importance of protecting citizens passing through conservation areas without malicious intent, to ensure the law respects human rights," he said.
In another step, the committee commended the government's responsiveness in agreeing to act upon much of the advice provided and preparing a schedule of amendments.
The committee advised that the House of Representatives should debate and endorse the bill for the broader interests of Zanzibaris and the importance of the introduced changes in boosting the national income.
