Insight story

5 min read

Turning the tide for women fish workers in Tanzania

The Tanzania Women Fish Workers Association (TAWFA) is revolutionising the working conditions and well-being of women in the fisheries sector. Despite their crucial role, women fish workers face daunting challenges such as lack of capital, limited skills, poor handling practices, and restricted market access. Dive in below to see how TAWFA, with the support of the Collective, are transforming their industry.

Introducing TAWFA
Established in 2019 in the Lake Zone regions of Mwanza, Kagera, Mara, and Simiyu, TAWFA unites 150 different groups of women fish workers in Tanzania. They strongly advocate for policy reforms to improve the working conditions and well-being of their members. As part of the African Women Fish Processors and Traders Network (AWFISHNET), TAWFA also extends their impact across the continent, driving significant improvements and lasting change.

Member research guides service priorities
After valuable coaching through the Beyond Farming Collective, TAWFA conducted new member research to better understand their needs and challenges. This helped prioritise the services they offered, focusing on skill development and financial assistance. The research also provided key insights into members' willingness to pay for services, ensuring more sustainable support. This approach empowers women and aligns services with their needs, helping overcome barriers.

Investment establishes advanced fish processing hub
TAWFA has secured investment via the Collective to establish a state-of-the-art one-stop centre for women fish processors and traders. This centre will feature advanced facilities for storage, processing, smoking, testing, and packaging to meet high standards of hygiene, quality, and value addition. The addition of a new Fisheries Quality Control unit will ensure products meet international standards. In addition, the centre will offer marketing and branding services, emphasising sustainable sourcing and high quality. Collaborations with distributors and e-commerce platforms will expand market access.

By promoting gender-inclusive practices and creating opportunities for women to participate in the innovation, the facility will have a positive impact on both individual lives and the overall well-being of fishing communities.

Fostering entrepreneurship and sustainable practices
Furthermore, the centre will serve as a training hub, providing TAWFA members and non-members with essential skills in fish processing, entrepreneurship, and sustainable resource management. This holistic approach not only addresses the immediate needs identified through member research but also fosters long-term growth and empowerment for women fish workers across the region.

Transforming fisheries for a brighter future
By addressing challenges and providing skills, resources, and market access, TAWFA enhances livelihoods and promotes sustainable community development. These efforts underscore the importance of gender-inclusive practices and innovation. For more information or to explore how you can support, please contact TAWFA directly or reach out to the Collective.

Learn more

Get in touch

To understand the potential impact and investment opportunities in Tanzania, reach out to our Impact Manager.

Grace Mhina

grace.mhina@aaa-tz.org

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