LIVESTOCK AND FISHERIES SECTORS TO BE DRIVEN BY SCIENCE

The Minister of Livestock and Fisheries, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Bashiru Ally Kakurwa, has emphasized that the government will prioritize scientific expertise, professional advice, and research in developing the livestock and fisheries sectors.

Dr. Bashiru made these remarks today, January 22, 2026, during an official visit to Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) in Morogoro, where he discussed potential collaborations between the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries and the university.

Speaking to students and observing various academic activities on campus, Dr. Bashiru highlighted that President Samia Suluhu Hassan has directed the ministry to adopt a scientific and research-driven approach in advancing these key sectors.

“The Ministry has been tasked by the President, alongside the 25-Year Development Vision, to move from traditional livestock keeping to modern, efficient, and productive methods,” he explained.

He further noted that SUA is one of the country’s most prestigious institutions, recognized for its training, advisory services, and research in agriculture, livestock, fisheries, and forestry.

Dr. Bashiru encouraged students to study diligently and engage in research, pointing out the significant commercial potential of livestock grazing areas and their seeds. He also mentioned that the Ministry and SUA have formed committees to focus on research, training, and professional advice particularly in fish farming using ponds and cages, pasture management, laboratory work, and enhancing poultry production.

Earlier, during a meeting between SUA leadership and the Ministry, the university’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Raphael Chibunda, highlighted the growing dairy industry in the country and announced the launch of a specialized program to train experts for the sector.

He explained that the university’s goal is to ensure that every graduate acquires practical skills to become self-reliant in various fields and contribute effectively to both private and public sector initiatives.

Prof. Chibunda also stated that SUA continues to upgrade its facilities for veterinary education to produce highly skilled doctors in line with evolving industry demands.

Meanwhile, the Ministry’s Deputy Secretary-General, Dr. Edwin Mhede, discussed the production of fish fingerlings, stressing the importance of selective breeding to produce high-quality fingerlings in a short time. He emphasized that meeting market demands is critical, especially as more people are engaging in fish farming.