Hiari Chona
Vice Chairman
Hiari Chona is a committed expert in aquaculture and fisheries, having substantial experience in fisheries research, laboratory operations, and fieldwork. Throughout the years, he has actively participated in numerous initiatives focused on enhancing fish farming, managing marine resources, and advancing sustainable aquaculture development in Tanzania.
His educational qualifications comprise a Certificate in Aquaculture from Nyegezi Freshwater Training Institute in Mwanza (2002-2003) and a Diploma in Aquaculture from Mbegani Fisheries Development Centre in Bagamoyo (2009-2011). These degrees have endowed him with the requisite abilities to make substantial contributions to the fisheries sector.
Hiari Chona has been a pivotal member of the Tanzania Fisheries Research Institute (TAFIRI) in Dar es Salaam, where he has occupied many positions. In his capacity as a Research Technician, he has participated in laboratory research, conducted fisheries fieldwork, and overseen students during practical training. He previously held the position of Laboratory Technician, facilitating fisheries laboratory operations and student instruction. Additionally, as an Able Seaman, he engaged in fisheries field operations, gear preparation, and laboratory analysis.
In addition to his institutional responsibilities, Hiari Chona has been instrumental in numerous fisheries and aquaculture initiatives. He served as a Project Technician in the Milkfish Farming Project (2008) at Kilongawima, aiding in the advancement of aquaculture methodologies. Between 2005 and 2008, he participated in the WWF RUMAKI Seascape Mariculture Initiative Project, which sought to enhance fish output and assist coastal communities in mitigating poverty. He contributed to the development of fish ponds in Mkuranga (2004) under the Tanzania Coastal Management Partnership (TCMP), supervised by Dr. Mahika.
His contributions encompass research initiatives such the SWIOFish prawn and small-scale fisheries study at TAFIRI, as well as the Mud Crab Stock Assessment in Tanga (2005), a USAID-funded project designed to assess the population status of Scylla serrata. Furthermore, he participated in the establishment of fish ponds at the Mbegani Fisheries Development Centre (2005) to advance milkfish cultivation among students and local populations. From 2003 to 2004, he engaged in a tank and pond aquaculture technology initiative in Dar es Salaam, facilitated by the Department for International Development (DFID), contributing to the enhancement of urban aquaculture methodologies.
Mr. Hiari Chona, with extensive experience in aquaculture development, fisheries research, and laboratory operations, plays a vital role in advancing sustainable fisheries and aquaculture in Tanzania. His proficiency and commitment have substantially advanced the sector, promoting innovation in aquaculture and resource management.