WOMEN involved in processing fishery products in Muleba District, Kagera Region, have expressed their gratitude to the Environmental Management and Economic Development Organisation (EMEDO) and WorldFish for providing modern tools for drying sardines, significantly boosting their income.

During a recent training session for businesswomen, Jovitha Chrysostom, one of the participants, shared how her group once dried ten buckets of sardines on old mats, working in shifts. With the introduction of new drying nets, thanks to the partnership with EMEDO, a Mwanza-based organization, they can now process up to 30 buckets of sardines per day.

The training, which brought together 100 women’s groups, focused on transformative business practices and effective use of loans. Chrysostom explained how women traditionally faced stigma and oppression regarding their involvement in fishing activities. It was widely believed that a woman approaching a fishing boat was a bad omen, often leading to their exclusion from fishing sites. However, this is now changing, thanks to initiatives like those from EMEDO.

Chrysostom, who hails from Mazinga Island, recounted how women were previously shooed away from fishing boats, seen as bearers of misfortune. Today, her group is actively catching and processing lake fish, challenging these stereotypes and proving that women can thrive in the male-dominated fishing industry.

"You have shown us that opportunities for women are open, and people's mindsets are changing," Chrysostom said, expressing her gratitude. "Initially, we hesitated to approach the boats, but we persisted, and now the men have accepted us as partners."

EMEDO’s support has been crucial, providing essential resources like nets and processing infrastructure, enabling these women to make significant contributions to their families and communities. Jeniva Kanganyira of the Friendship Group in Rwazi Village also shared her success story, stating that her group now owns fishing boats—a dream that once seemed impossible.

"Through education and empowerment, we are running our businesses successfully. We are not just buying dagaa; we own fishing boats and are generating income," Kanganyira said proudly.

Ilucyphine Kilanga, an EMEDO project officer, emphasized the organization’s dedication to providing income-generating education. "We are committed to establishing infrastructure for drying and processing lake fish, equipping women with the skills to manage their businesses effectively. So far, we have reached over 1,000 women," she noted.

Kilanga further highlighted the deep-rooted traditions that historically oppressed women in the fishing industry. However, alongside WorldFish, they are witnessing a significant shift, as women now take charge of their economic futures and make a positive impact in their communities.

Dr Netsayi Mudege, a representative from WorldFish, pointed out that the construction of fish drying beds has enabled women to improve the value and quality of their products, thereby enhancing food security. “As these women rise to prominence in the fishing industry, they are not only redefining their roles but also contributing to the economic strength of their communities," Dr Mudege remarked, stressing the importance of continued support and education.

Edina Kabyazi, the acting executive director of Muleba District, commended the organizations for their unwavering support in combating oppressive traditions. She noted that loans totalling 1.7 billion Tanzanian shillings are now available for women and expressed confidence in their ability to repay them.

Kabyazi also acknowledged the positive economic impact of women’s involvement in fishing, stating that local incomes have increased by 50 percent. She encouraged women to continue working together to grow their businesses and further enhance community welfare.