Low-income households in Ilemela Municipal Council, Mwanza Region, are improving their economic circumstances through fish farming in floating cages on Lake Victoria, supported by the Tanzania Social Action Fund (TASAF). Two community groups, Maliganya TASAF and Temeke TASAF, received a combined 34 million Tanzanian shillings through the Productive Social Safety Net (PSSN) Programme to construct fish cages and purchase fingerlings and feed. The groups generated approximately 27 million shillings from their first harvest, enabling members to reinvest in the venture while also allocating earnings to group savings and lending activities.
Acting TASAF Coordinator for Ilemela Municipal Council David Lugenji said the initiative demonstrates how vulnerable households can transform locally available resources into sustainable income sources when provided with appropriate financial support. The groups identified Lake Victoria's economic potential and decided to venture into cage fish farming as a collective investment to improve livelihoods and strengthen financial independence. Lugenji noted that beneficiaries who previously struggled to secure three meals daily are now becoming more food secure and improving living conditions through the projects and small businesses they have established.
Beyond fish farming, the PSSN Programme has supported beneficiaries across Ilemela Municipality to establish businesses, acquire productive assets and improve housing. Laurencia Rubigisa, a resident of Kabangaja, has constructed a house with four rental units, acquired livestock including two cows, two goats and pigs, and connected her home to electricity and running water. She chairs the Wasikivu TASAF Group, comprising 16 members who began economic activities in 2020 through a share-based savings scheme and have since expanded into batik fabric production, groundnut products, soap and skincare oils. The group received equipment including groundnut-grinding and soap-making machines through TASAF support.
Other beneficiaries have also recorded significant improvements. Modesta Chidudu, who joined the programme in 2014, has acquired cattle and goats that contribute to household income and long-term economic security. Baraka John participated in a community savings and lending group that received 7 million shillings to establish a revolving fund providing interest-free loans to members, enabling him to expand his fish business, construct a house and strengthen his ability to provide for his family. Asteria Mloba said the programme has uplifted beneficiaries, enabling them to significantly improve their houses while their businesses operate well.
Lugenji highlighted that TASAF's contribution extends beyond improving household incomes to restoring dignity, confidence and social inclusion among beneficiaries who previously faced economic hardship and discrimination. He noted that the programme has contributed to improved food security and education, with children from some beneficiary households progressing to higher learning institutions and securing student loans. Ilemela Municipal Council will continue supervising and monitoring TASAF projects to ensure their sustainability and continued contribution to beneficiary welfare and surrounding communities.