20th anniversary of the Institute of Marine Sciences and marine science in Tanzania — what next step

On July 1st 1999, the Institute of Marine Sciences (IMS), University of Dar Es Salaam celebrated its 20th anniversary. IMS was established as a lead institute for conducting advanced marine research and training in Tanzania. Its 20th anniversary accords us an opportunity to reflect on the advances of marine science in Tanzania. Being a coastal nation and by recognizing the importance and potentials of the ocean and coastal area, Tanzania, since its independence has been doing efforts to set-up sound marine policies and institutional framework and build the nationʹs capability, including human, in marine affairs. A careful study of Tanzaniaʹs marine science policies, institutional framework, and human capability indicates that the situation has improved satisfactorily, especially in human capacity. However, the countryʹs capability in conducting basic and advanced marine science research remains poor due to the lack of a research vessel. The major problem has been the high construction and running costs of a research vessel. I am proposing two approaches from other countries, i.e., Japan, Germany, USA, and UK that can be adopted in Tanzania. Firstly, the research vessel can be acquired as a national resource, i.e., bought and owned by the government. Secondly, relevant and capable beneficiaries, departments, and organizations e.g., the navy, can buy the vessel and make it available to the marine science community. Acquiring a multipurpose marine research vessel is an important next step that Tanzania needs to make in marine science. I am also proposing formulation of a national policy to guide marine science research and development, and the establishment/selection of a lead agency with full authority to manage and supervise all marine and coastal area development/economic activities.