Technology Needs Assessment (TNA) Launch | Remarks by Mr. Shigeki Komatsubara

• Honourable Shaaban Ali Othman, Minister for Blue Economy and Fisheries, Zanzibar
• Honourable Ministers
• Your Excellencies, Ambassadors and High Commissioners
• Permanent Secretaries and Deputy Permanent Secretaries
• Distinguished Guests
• Colleagues and Partners,

Good morning,

It is both an honour and a pleasure to join you today for the official launch of the Technology Needs Assessment (TNA) Report for the United Republic of Tanzania. This marks a significant milestone, and I would like to begin by extending my heartfelt congratulations to all those who contributed to the development of this comprehensive report from the Deep Sea Fishing Authority and various government ministries to the International Seabed Authority, the UN Technology Bank, academia, the private sector, and civil society. Your collective efforts have resulted in a collaborative, evidence-based document that charts a roadmap for Tanzania’s technological advancement.

This achievement could not be more timely. The TNA arrives at a pivotal moment in Tanzania’s development journey. It is closely aligned with national priorities, particularly in the agriculture and blue economy sectors — both vital engines for economic growth, poverty reduction and sustainable livelihoods. Agriculture provides employment for over 60 per cent of the workforce, while the blue economy, encompassing fisheries, marine transport and aquaculture, significantly contributes to GDP and supports more than 4.5 million livelihoods. Women represent over 80 per cent of the workforce in subsectors such as seaweed farming. These sectors are not just economic pillars; they are lifelines for communities, especially in rural and coastal areas.

Beyond national alignment, the TNA resonates strongly with our shared global commitments. It supports the United Nations programming priorities in Tanzania and contributes meaningfully to the Sustainable Development Goals, notably…

 SDG 1: No Poverty

SDG 2: Zero Hunger

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure and

SDG 13: Climate Action

The technologies highlighted in the report, including climate-smart agriculture, advanced data systems, and remote sensing tools, have the potential to transform development outcomes, enhance food security, protect ecosystems, create jobs, and bolster resilience to climate shocks.

In addition to its strategic relevance, the TNA offers an operational advantage. The report provides an important platform for enhanced coordination among UN agencies. Its findings and recommendations offer a basis for deepening collaboration in support of Tanzania’s national development plans and Vision 2025.

Looking ahead, we must not allow this report to remain static. I encourage the UN Technology Bank and other UN entities to actively build on the TNA’s momentum by translating its recommendations into concrete follow-up actions. The technologies outlined from ICT infrastructure and geospatial systems to digital finance and intelligent aquaculture present opportunities not only to improve public service delivery but also to catalyse private sector investment and enterprise growth.

Indeed, the role of the private sector cannot be overstated. As we transition from assessment to implementation, creating an enabling environment for inclusive and sustainable technological investment is critical. Areas such as off-grid renewable energy, digital platforms for agriculture, and automation in fisheries hold transformative potential. These innovations can help resolve longstanding development challenges while opening up new prospects for youth, women, and small-scale producers.

In conclusion, let me reaffirm our collective commitment. The United Nations Country Team in Tanzania, under the leadership of the Resident Coordinator, stands ready to support the implementation of the TNA’s recommendations. Through joint programming, technical assistance, capacity-building, and strategic partnerships, we are dedicated to turning this vision into action.

Thank you once again for your attention. I look forward to continued collaboration as we work together to shape a technology-enabled future for Tanzania.

Asnteni sana!

Thank you!