The Coast Development Authority (CDA) has handed the Integrated Mariculture Livelihood Enhancement Programme at Tudor Creek to Wajomvu community in a move aimed at boosting sustainable livelihoods through the blue economy.
A high-level stakeholder meeting held at the office of the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Blue Economy, Cooperatives, Agriculture and Livestock reviewed progress of the programme and affirmed community ownership.
The meeting brought together Ibrahim Khamis Mutwafy, CECM for Blue Economy, Cooperatives, Agriculture and Livestock, Mzee Mwinyi Mzee, Chairman of the CDA, leaders and members of the Jomvu Kuu Beach Management Unit, as well as representatives from the Wajomvu community.
The programme, which was initiated by the Coast Development Authority, has now been fully adopted and is owned by the Wajomvu community under the leadership of Badi Twalib.
It seeks to unlock the blue economy potential along Tudor Creek, covering areas including Old Town, Tudor, Junda, Banglaa, Mikindani and Jomvu Kuu. The initiative focuses on creating sustainable livelihoods, enhancing food security and empowering residents through responsible utilization of marine resources.
Central to the programme is the establishment of fish cages with a capacity of 70,000, combined with seaweed farming, with special emphasis on the involvement of women and youth.
Key components include capacity building and skills training for youth in modern agriculture techniques, construction of a jetty with fuel installation points, fibre boat building initiatives, and development of a solarized fish market equipped with solar-powered ice-making machines to reduce post-harvest losses.
Other components are security apparatus to safeguard operations, provision of transport vehicles for efficient movement of produce and inputs, formation and strengthening of cooperatives for collective marketing and access to financing, establishment of a diving hub, and ongoing training in value addition and deep sea fishing.
Ibrahim Khamis Mutwafy commended the strong ownership demonstrated by the Coast Development Authority and the Wajomvu community. He reaffirmed the County Government’s full support for the initiative.
“The County Government is proud to partner with CDA and the Wajomvu community on this important programme. Initiated by CDA and now fully owned by the Wajomvu community, this project represents a model of community-led blue economy development. It will deliver real opportunities for women and youth through fish cage farming, seaweed cultivation, and supporting infrastructure, while protecting the Tudor Creek ecosystem,” said the CECM.
Mzee Mwinyi Mzee, Chairman of the Coast Development Authority, highlighted CDA’s foundational role and commitment to handing over full ownership to the community.
“The Integrated Mariculture Livelihood Enhancement Programme was initiated by CDA to empower coastal communities. We are pleased that the Wajomvu community has taken full ownership of the programme. This community-driven model ensures sustainability and aligns with our vision for integrated coastal development,” said Mzee.
Leaders from the Jomvu Kuu Beach Management Unit and the Wajomvu community expressed strong appreciation for the initiative and reaffirmed their commitment to its successful implementation.
The meeting ended with unanimous agreement to fast-track the next phases, including detailed site assessments, community sensitization and resource mobilization, under the clear leadership and ownership of the Wajomvu community with continued technical support from CDA.
By Sitati Reagan
