Overseas training of fishermen and the ongoing construction of fish markets in several coastal areas of Zanzibar are part of government efforts to improve the fishing industry in the islands; the House was informed.
“We have been sending our people to China and India to learn about proper fishing and fish farming methods and we have been monitoring their development,” said Mr Mohammed Said Mohammed, deputy minister for Livestock and Fishing Development.
Mohammed’s statement was in response to Mr Hassan Hamad Omar (CUF- Kojani), who wanted to know whether the training of fishermen abroad had made any noticeable change in the industry. “Is the 100m/= allocated for supporting fishermen enough?” asked the lawmaker.
The deputy minister said the monitoring and evaluation of the more than 60 fish farmers who underwent short training in China indicated some achievement. “Our staff have also been helping fishermen set up standard fish ponds and skills for deep-sea fishing,” he said.
Mohammed also informed the House that under the programme, fishermen and women were supported with fishing gear, including standard nets and boats. The deputy minister asked fishermen to be patient as the government made efforts to find development partners to support them.
Lawmakers decry low salaries for teachers
In efforts to retain good teachers in schools, the government should make sure that they do not change professions, lawmakers have advised.
Debating the 2013/2014 budget estimates of the ministry of Education and Vocational Training, the lawmakers decried low salaries for teachers and unfavourable teaching environment in most schools. “Some good teachers have turned politicians because of low salaries.
I think the government should ensure teachers are nurtured and respected by giving them attractive salary packages,” said Mr Hussein Ibrahim Makungu (CCM- Bububu).
Mr Saleh Nassor Juma (CUF-Wawi) complained that most teachers in Zanzibar, particularly in rural areas, wore torn cloths and cheap sandals, popularly known as ‘yebo yebo’, saying it was degrading before students. Saleh urged the government not to neglect teachers.
2013 Tanzania Daily News