FISHERS in Chwaka Bay, Zanzibar, have been urged to refrain from practices that harm marine environment which is considered a key driver of community livelihoods and national development.

The call was made at the weekend by Chairman of Chwaka Fisheries Committee, Ramadhan Yussuf Mkanga, when the committee donated funds for food to boarder pupils at Chwaka School who were in preparation for their national Standard Seven, Form Two and Form Four examinations.

He explained that the ability to assist vulnerable community members stems from funds allocated by the government to fisheries committees, which are derived from marine conservation efforts aimed at fostering community development. 

Mkanga also encouraged the pupils to study hard in order to achieve good results in their examinations.

Chwaka Sheha, Ali Hassan Mjombo, called on other committees to emulate the example set by the Chwaka Fisheries Committee in supporting disadvantaged members of their communities.

Speaking on behalf of the Chwaka School teachers, Riziki Abdalla Mussa described the gesture as significant and exemplary, saying it would help foster unity among pupils as they pursue their academic goals.

Pupils Ismaili Ishakka Ramadhan and Ramlat Abdalla, expressed their gratitude to the committee for the support and promised to study hard in order to excel in their forthcoming examinations. The committee donated 2m/- for the purchase of mattresses and food for the school’s pupils.