PROGRAMMES
Sustainable Livelihoods
Blue Prosperity
Make more value from what communities already have
For many fishing and coastal households in Tanzania, income depends on seasonal catches, fluctuating prices and limited access to reliable markets. BEO works with communities to identify opportunities to improve earnings from existing resources and skills. This may include better fish drying and smoking methods, improved handling and storage, value addition, collective selling and stronger links with buyers. The priority is to help local enterprises retain more value, reduce avoidable losses and respond to market demand without relying on ever-increasing catches.
Build enterprises that fit local conditions
Sustainable livelihoods look different from one community to another. Depending on local resources, skills, markets and environmental conditions, opportunities may include seaweed farming along suitable coastal areas, small-scale aquaculture where technically and economically viable, shellfish or other locally appropriate products, fish processing, boat and gear repair, and services that support fisheries and coastal tourism. BEO works with communities and partners to assess which options are realistic, what investment they require and whether there is a dependable market before promoting them. The aim is to develop enterprises that can operate beyond short-term project support.
Connect local enterprise to lasting opportunity
A promising livelihood can struggle without working capital, business skills, dependable buyers or the ability to meet market requirements. BEO seeks to help community enterprises strengthen basic financial management, understand production costs, organise supply, improve product quality and build relationships with buyers, financial institutions and other business partners. We also consider how enterprises use water, energy and natural resources, so that income growth does not undermine the ecosystems on which future opportunities depend. Success means stronger local businesses, more resilient household incomes and economic activities that can endure while aquatic ecosystems remain healthy.