Examining Youth Invisibility in Small-Scale Fisheries Management: A Case Study of Bagamoyo District, Tanzania

Examining Youth Invisibility in Small-Scale Fisheries Management: A Case Study of Bagamoyo District, Tanzania

This research explores the involvement of youth in the small-scale fisheries (SSF) in Bagamoyo District, Tanzania, focusing on youth invisibility and their participation in the SSF value chain. It examines the factors contributing to this invisibility and the changes over the past decade that have impacted youth visibility in the industry. Data was gathered through 61 interviews and observations to analyze how young individuals engage in the SSF value chain and the factors influencing their participation. The findings reveal that young people often occupy labour roles with limited decision-making power, reflecting established power dynamics and traditional gender norms. Viewed through the lens of the social constructionist theory, the study highlights how societal norms and cultural traditions contribute to youth being marginalized in this sector.

The research shows that youth exclusion is often systemic rather than a result of purposive discrimination. Despite policy shifts and technological advancements over the past decade, the study established that young people still face challenges in accessing resources, leadership positions, and meaningful representation. However, there are opportunities for empowerment through targeted interventions that promote inclusivity, gender equality, and youth involvement in decision-making processes. While broad inclusivity is important, the research suggests that an all-participatory system for inclusiveness may in turn make decision making difficult. A more strategic approach that identifies key stakeholders and ensures their meaningful involvement is necessary.