Lake Tanganyika’s fisheries thrive under FAO’s FISH4ACP programme

KIGOMA: Lake Tanganyika, the world’s second deepest freshwater lake, has long been the lifeblood of surrounding communities. However, for years, the fisheries industry that so many rely on struggled to meet international quality standards, leaving the region’s rich potential untapped.

Today, that is changing. Thanks to the FAO’s FISH4ACP programme, local fisheries have undergone a remarkable transformation—ushering in higher-quality fish products, reducing post-harvest losses, and expanding access to global markets.

A struggling industry

Before the implementation of the FISH4ACP programme, the fisheries sector around Lake Tanganyika was plagued by poor infrastructure, outdated processing techniques, and inconsistent quality. As a result, local fishermen and processors found it difficult to secure lucrative export contracts, limiting their income potential and stalling economic growth.

“The quality of fish and sardines was often subpar, which made it hard to tap into higher-paying international markets,” recalls Theresia Malyoba, Acting Deputy Officer of the Quality Control and Standards Unit for Fisheries Products in the Lake Tanganyika region.

“Processors were forced to halt their operations at times due to low supplies of fish, and even when fish were available, they were often too small or of poor quality.”

The fishing industry, which should have been thriving given the natural abundance of resources in Lake Tanganyika, was instead facing stagnation. Many fishermen and processors could not afford to invest in modern equipment, and post-harvest losses were alarmingly high due to inadequate storage facilities and poor handling practices.

Enter FISH4ACP: A Comprehensive Solution

Launched by the FAO, the FISH4ACP programme took a holistic approach to addressing these long-standing challenges. Through a series of capacity-building initiatives, the programme provided training on modern fishing and processing techniques, focusing on proper fish handling, storage, and preservation.

Investments were also made to upgrade facilities, equip fishermen with insulated boxes for better storage, and introduce solar drying racks to improve product hygiene.

“These interventions have been a game changer for the fishing industry around Lake Tanganyika,” says Malyoba. “For the first time, fishers and processors are meeting, and even exceeding, international quality standards.”

Indeed, the programme’s emphasis on sustainability and quality control has been pivotal. It not only improves current practices but ensures the long-term viability of fisheries resources, vital to the region’s future.

Boosting international trade

With quality improving, doors to lucrative export markets began to open. Buyers from neighboring countries such as Rwanda, Burundi, and Zambia became increasingly interested in Lake Tanganyika’s products, while international markets in the United States, Canada, and Australia also started to take notice.

Between June 2023 and July 2024 alone, over 67 tonnes of fresh fish were exported to these countries, generating 43m/- in revenue, while an additional 174.6 tonnes of dried fish brought in 88.5m/- . Sardines, in particular, have become a star product, with exports totaling 28.8 tonnes of fresh sardines and 125.4 tonnes of dried sardines, earning a combined 113m/- .

“We’ve seen tremendous growth in demand, especially from international buyers who appreciate the enhanced quality of our products,” Malyoba adds.

“Tanzania is becoming a leader in pelagic, sardine, and perch production.”

Impact on local communities

At the heart of this transformation are the fishers and processors who have benefitted most. One such beneficiary is Betina Tito, a fish processor at the Kibirizi landing site in Kigoma. Prior to the programme, Betina used outdated drying methods, which often left her products exposed to dust and contaminants.

“With the training and new equipment provided by FISH4ACP, I can now dry my fish in clean conditions using raised racks,” says Betina. “This has drastically improved the quality of my products, and I’m now able to sell them at much higher prices.”

Jamilu Mkuyu, Managing Director of the Mkuyu Fish Export Company, echoes similar sentiments. His company, which buys fish from local processors, has seen a noticeable improvement in the quality of products since the programme began.

“Previously, it wasn’t uncommon to receive fish that were already starting to spoil by the time they arrived at shore. Now, fishers use insulated boxes to preserve freshness during transportation. The difference in quality is undeniable,” Mkuyu explains.

Revitalizing value chain

FISH4ACP’s impact extends beyond improving product quality. The programme has also revitalized the broader value chain. Fishermen and processors who once struggled with low prices and high post-harvest losses are now enjoying higher incomes, better working conditions, and increased bargaining power.

“We’re seeing the value chain bounce back. Processors who had stopped working due to low-quality supplies are now returning. They are motivated by the increase in both quantity and quality of fish,” Malyoba notes.

“Even customers are benefitting from slightly lower prices due to the higher yields, which has been a welcome relief.”

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A Sustainable Future for Lake Tanganyika’s Fisheries

The long-term sustainability of the lake’s fishery resources is at the core of FISH4ACP’s mission. The programme promotes sustainable fishing techniques, ensures compliance with local regulations, and advocates for the responsible use of Lake Tanganyika’s resources. In doing so, it is not only safeguarding the lake’s future but also preserving the livelihoods of the 27,000 fishers and 11,000 processors who depend on it.

For companies like Ruhebeye Fish Export, this focus on sustainability is key.

“Thanks to FISH4ACP, we’ve already exported over three tonnes of sardines abroad, and we’re seeing strong demand,” says Damian Remi, proprietor of the company.

“This would not have been possible without the programme’s support in raising our quality standards.”

In a short time, FAO’s FISH4ACP programme has turned around the fortunes of Lake Tanganyika’s fisheries sector, improving the livelihoods of thousands of fishers and processors while unlocking new economic opportunities through international trade.

What was once a struggling industry is becoming a vibrant part of Tanzania’s economy, poised to continue growing, thanks to the comprehensive and sustainable interventions introduced by the programme.

For the people of Lake Tanganyika, FISH4ACP has truly been a lifeline, paving the way for a brighter future.