New Project to Scale Up Efficient, Clean Cooling Systems for Octopus Fisheries Launched in Kilwa
Posted on 02 July 2019
The future of octopus fishery crucially depends on the long-term availability of cooling systems with sources that are affordable, accessible and environmentally friendly.
In support to the octopus fishing activities in Kilwa WWF Tanzania in collaboration with Climate Works with funding from WWF UK has launched an efficient cooling project popularly known as the Kigali Cooling Efficiency Project which will indeed be a game changer in the octopus fishing business.The objective of the project is to enhance sustainable fisheries management and sea food production, access to clean and efficient cooling systems and contribute to social impacts on improving livelihood and food security of the coastal community. The project is also expected to improve preservation of fish stock, reduce post harvest losses and restore marine habitats.
Speaking on behalf of the Country Director for WWF Tanzania Ms. Matrida Simfukwe said WWF is looking forward to the implementation of this project. “Climate change has increased the cost of doing business in fishery and that the project would help achieve the much-needed transformation within the sector”.
Ms. Simfukwe said researches have shown that there is a loss of 35% after harvest hence reduced nutrition and income to the fishers and the government as well.
The Marine Programme Coordinator Dr. Modesta Medard said the newly launched project among other things will purchase fish storages and train fishers on how to effectively use these storages to ensure quality and value added in the harvests.
“Data to check the quality compiled by a sophisticated techniques to check quality of stock will be used to promote the whole concept of sustainable entrepreneurship and the experience replicated to other areas along the coast of the Indian Ocean”.
The District Commissioner for Kilwa Christopher Ngubiagai speaking at the launch appreciated the lead role that WWF is taking in promoting sustainable conservation of fishery resources and the newly launched project will indeed improve livelihoods and effectively protect marine ecosystems. Hi promised to support the project to make sure it is successful.
Fishing industry is one of the most important sectors for the Tanzania economy and a significant energy consumer. Energy issues such as security of supply and energy efficiency are becoming increasingly important for the fishing industry due to the accessibility and rising costs of energy in the country.