Why smart drying matters for coastal communities

Post-harvest fish loss remains one of the biggest challenges for small-scale processors along Tanzania's coast. Weather, firewood costs, and inconsistent drying conditions often mean spoiled product and lost income.

A study reported by The Citizen puts the scale of the problem in sharp focus. Researchers found that Tanzania's sardine (dagaa) value chain loses about $15 million — roughly Sh40.5 billion — every year due to post-harvest inefficiencies as fish moves from Mafia Island to markets in the Democratic Republic of Congo. About 70% of Mafia's 6,000 tonnes of dried dagaa is exported along this route.

Processing and transport account for much of the damage. The study recorded 19.5% quality loss and 10% physical loss during processing — driven by poor drying conditions, over-boiling, and animal damage, especially in the rainy season. Transport adds further physical and quality losses from overloading, poor handling, and compression in trucks. By the time fish reaches Lubumbashi, losses are estimated at $2.50 per kilogramme.

The researchers recommend improved drying technology such as solar dryers, better storage infrastructure, stronger logistics systems, and training for fish processors — particularly women, who dominate the sector.

Akoliam's solar fish dryer combines controlled drying with live temperature and humidity monitoring. Processors can see when conditions are right and when product is ready — reducing guesswork and improving quality.

For families that depend on fishing, better preservation means more stable earnings and less waste. That is the foundation of everything we build at Akoliam Limited.

Source: The Citizen — "Study exposes Sh40 billion losses in Mafia sardine supply chain" (14 May 2026). https://www.thecitizen.co.tz/tanzania/news/national/study-exposes-sh40-billion-losses-in-mafia-sardine-supply-chain-5458672