Zanzibar charts bold path toward sports and wellness

ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR’S vision to emerge as a regional hub for sports tourism and wellness was powerfully showcased as hundreds of fitness enthusiasts filled the streets from Kisonge to the New Amaan Complex during the annual National Fitness Bonanza held on January 1.

United by exercise, energy and purpose, participants sent a clear message about the growing role of sports in national development.

Leading by example, Zanzibar President and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, Hussein Ali Mwinyi, joined the mass walk and exercise session, reaffirming the government’s strong commitment to expanding sports events, leagues and high-profile competitions.

He emphasised that sport is a key pillar in strengthening tourism, boosting the economy, attracting investment and creating employment, particularly for young people.

President Mwinyi highlighted the government’s strategic focus on sports tourism, pledging continued collaboration with the private sector and sports stakeholders to develop international-standard infrastructure.

He stressed that long-term success depends on identifying and nurturing talent from the grassroots to elite levels, enabling young athletes to compete internationally and improve their livelihoods while elevating Zanzibar’s global profile.

The President noted significant progress in infrastructure development, citing modern facilities such as the New Amaan Complex, Gombani Stadium in Pemba and Mau Stadium, alongside the construction of 17 additional sports grounds across the islands.

Several of these facilities are set to be officially inaugurated during celebrations marking the 62nd anniversary of the Zanzibar Revolution.

President Mwinyi directed relevant authorities to ensure proper management and maintenance to maximise public benefit.

Beyond elite competition, Mwinyi underscored the importance of physical exercise in everyday life, highlighting its role in improving physical and mental health and preventing non-communicable diseases.

He described the fitness bonanza as a vital platform for promoting good health, social cohesion, unity and national brotherhood.

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The event also reflected Zanzibar’s inclusive sports culture. Over 165 fitness clubs from Unguja, Pemba and Mainland Tanzania participated alongside members of the public, drawing more than 500 participants across different age groups.

Officials noted that Zanzibar currently boasts 47 registered sports associations, including traditional games, reinforcing the government’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage alongside modern sports.

The bonanza, part of the 62nd Revolution celebrations, was widely praised by organisers and officials, who commended President Mwinyi’s consistent participation as a symbol of people-centred leadership.

The event stood as a strong statement of Zanzibar’s ambition: A healthier population, united through sports and a nation positioning itself confidently on the regional and global sports stage.