Othman: Spice farming key to Pemba’s economic liberation

ZANZIBAR: ACT-Wazalendo presidential candidate for Zanzibar, Mr Othman Masoud Othman has vowed to implement wide-ranging economic reforms aimed at lifting Pemba residents out of poverty, with a focus on revitalising the island’s spice farming industry.

Speaking earlier this week during a meeting with farmers in Mtambwe Daya, North Pemba, Mr Othman said the island’s fertile soils are ideal for growing high-value crops such as vanilla, cloves and chili peppers.

He pledged that if elected in the upcoming General Election on October 29th, this year, his administration would fully capitalise on this natural advantage for the benefit of ordinary citizens.

“Our land is rich, our climate is favourable and our farmers are hardworking. It’s time they became the true beneficiaries of their labour,” Mr Othman said.

To ensure farmers receive fair returns, he said an ACT-Wazalendo government would introduce official pricing guidelines for key crops to protect producers from exploitation by middlemen and profiteers.

He said a dedicated spice development authority would also be established to oversee production, regulate markets, maintain quality standards and facilitate spice exports.

The authority would connect local farmers directly with international buyers, cutting out unnecessary intermediaries.

To boost local value addition, Mr Othman promised to build small-scale spice processing factories across Pemba.

These facilities, he said, would help farmers fetch higher prices for their produce while generating jobs for local youth.

He also stressed the importance of international partnerships, saying his administration would work to secure reliable global markets for Pemba’s spices.

Citing Madagascar’s success in exporting vanilla, Mr Othman noted that Zanzibar, with its similarly fertile land and favourable climate, could potentially earn even more from its spice exports.

He further pledged to invest in irrigation infrastructure, improved farm inputs and modern agricultural training to boost productivity and efficiency.

“Spice farming can become a powerful engine of economic growth. Our plan offers a clear, actionable vision for the future, one that speaks to the needs of the people,” he said.

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Mr Othman urged supporters and citizens across Zanzibar to unite behind ACT-Wazalendo and build a strong, grassroots campaign that reaches every voter.

He promised an ACTled government would deliver genuine development, accountable leadership and equal opportunity for all.

Meanwhile, Mr Othman handed over campaign vehicles, make Toyota Alphard, one for each of the seven regions of Unguja, to help ACT teams conduct outreach effectively.

“These vehicles are essential tools. They will enable our teams to travel efficiently, hold meetings and ensure that our message reaches every household,” he said.

“Each region has received a vehicle based on its strategic importance in this election.” Mr Othman said that his candidacy was not about personal ambition but about ensuring that “every citizen can progress, every young person has access to education and Zanzibar builds a stronger future.”

Also speaking at the event, ACT-Wazalendo Campaign Manager Mr Ismail Jussa reiterated the party’s commitment to forming an inclusive government, free from favouritism and inequality.

“Our policies are centred on investing in every Zanzibari. We believe development must be shared and every citizen should have the opportunity to contribute and benefit,” Mr Jussa said.

He concluded with a rallying call: “Now is the time to show our strength at the ballot box on October 29. Let us stand together for our families, our neighbours and every Zanzibari who seeks change. Choose justice, choose progress, choose ACT-Wazalendo.”