Zanzibar’s Blue Economy Relies on Child Labor, Study Finds
KIWENGWA, Tanzania (AP) — The turquoise waters and vibrant marine life of Zanzibar’s coastline belie a harsh reality for many of the island’s children: dangerous and exhausting work that keeps the burgeoning “blue economy” afloat. A recent study reveals the widespread use of child labor in fishing and related marine activities, jeopardizing the health and education of a generation.
Thirteen-year-old Asha* spends her days wading through knee-deep water, collecting octopus and scaling fish destined for drying and sale. “I am helping my mother. I don’t want her doing everything alone,” she explained, her small hands already calloused from the work.
Asha’s story is not unique. Researchers from the University of Dar es Salaam surveyed 90 children working in coastal communities – Kiwengwa, Nungwi, and Nyamanzi – and found that 93% reported extreme fatigue. Over half, 58.6%, had suffered injuries from fish spines, boat engines, or sharp tools. The study, Situational Analysis of Child Labour in Coastal and Marine Activities in Zanzibar, highlights the scale of the problem.
The impact extends beyond immediate physical harm. School records show that roughly 20% of students in these communities dropped out between 2012 and 2015, with child labor cited as a key factor. Children involved in fishing were more than twice as likely to miss school or fail exams.
Tanzanian law prohibits anyone under 18 from engaging in hazardous work, including fishing and diving. While children aged 15-17 can perform “light work” that doesn’t harm their health or interfere with schooling, enforcement of these regulations is lax, particularly in the informal fishing sector.
“When we asked children why they were working at sea, they said they were simply helping their parents,” said Happiness Moshi, the study’s lead author. “But many were unaware of the risks involved and what they were missing in school.”
Fourteen-year-old Salum* hasn’t returned to school since it reopened weeks ago, instead assisting his uncle with night fishing, starting his day before midnight. “I enjoy fishing in the sea,” he said. “I learn a lot from my uncle.”
The study acknowledges the complex interplay of poverty and cultural norms. Many parents believe involving children in fishing equips them with essential survival skills. However, researchers emphasize that when this work compromises education or safety, it constitutes exploitation.
The situation is exacerbated by declining fish stocks due to warming waters, coral degradation, and overfishing, pushing families to rely on the income generated by their children. Village elder Othman Mahmood Ali noted, “I don’t find anything wrong with children helping their families. They have been doing it for many years.”
Zanzibar is actively promoting a “blue economy” focused on sustainable marine development and attracting investment in conservation and ecotourism. However, advocates like Nurdin Ali Maulid argue that the reality on the ground – the labor powering this economy – is often overlooked.
“The blue economy narrative is very clean,” Maulid said. “But the labour behind it is not.”
Authorities say they are taking steps to address the issue, including targeted patrols, awareness campaigns, and licensing reforms for fishing vessels. Makame Chumu Shaalin, the Fishery Coordination Officer, stated that officials are working to educate communities about children’s rights and the importance of education.
Despite these efforts, the future remains uncertain for children like Asha and Salum, whose childhoods are inextricably linked to the tide and the demands of Zanzibar’s blue economy.
*Names have been changed to protect the privacy of the individuals.
© Inter Press Service (20260302100322) — All Rights Reserved. Original source: https://www.ipsnews.net/2026/03/how-child-labour-persists-along-zanzibars-blue-economy/
