In the heart of Tanzanian lake fishing communities, the livelihoods of many depend on the precious ‘dagaa’ fish. This staple not only sustains families but also serves as a significant source of employment in the region. However, the current supply chain, though vital, is fragile and prone to disruptions. Traditionally, the preservation method involves drying the dagaa on sandy beaches under the scorching sun. Yet, this practice comes with a significant drawback – sand contamination.
To combat this issue, some turn to using firewood for smoking the fish. However, this method poses its own set of challenges, including pollution and hygiene concerns. Enter solar tents crafted from durable polyethylene and wooden frames. These innovative structures offer a safe, eco-friendly, and hygienic alternative for drying fish, effectively sidestepping issues of contamination.
This initiative seeks to introduce solar dryers to fish traders operating in the Mwanza region along Lake Victoria and Kigoma region along Lake Tanganyika. By placing a special emphasis on women within the dagaa value chain, this initiative aims not only to bolster their income but also to reduce spoilage rates. In doing so, overfishing can be curbed, while simultaneously enhancing the overall quality of dagaa. This improvement in quality is poised to attract broader markets and better prices. Furthermore, by reducing reliance on biomass for drying, this project plays a crucial role in safeguarding the environment for future generations.
