Zanzibar eyes DSE funding for public entities

ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR is stepping up efforts to reduce public institutions’ reliance on bank borrowing, following a new partnership with the Dar es Salaam Stock Exchange (DSE) that will open alternative financing channels through capital markets.

The three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) agreement between the DSE and the Zanzibar’s Treasury Registrar is expected to unlock fresh investment pathways for at least 17 state-linked institutions under the Registrar’s Office.

Zanzibar’s Treasury Registrar Mr Waheed Muhammad Sanya said the move marks a strategic shift in how public entities in Zanzibar access funding, with a deliberate pivot away from traditional bank loans toward investor-driven capital raising.

“This framework creates an alternative route, enabling them to mobilise funds from the capital markets instead of relying solely on loans,” said Mr Sanya over the weekend.

He said many public institutions in Zanzibar are relying on bank financing, noting that through this partnership, they will be able to access more sustainable and cost-effective funding options that reduce overdependence.

Under the arrangement, the Registrar’s Office will roll out a structured action plan to guide institutions on how to tap into the stock market, including potential listings and other capitalraising instruments. The plan is expected to accelerate investment activity and improve financial sustainability across public entities, fuelling a shift toward market-based financing and reduce dependence on costly bank borrowing while strengthen long-term growth.

In addition, the collaboration also signals a broader policy direction by Zanzibar to deepen its integration with Tanzania’s capital markets ecosystem, while improving governance and efficiency within its institutions.

The partnership also will focus on building technical capacity, expanding market awareness and encouraging a culture of investment among both institutions and the wider public.

DSE’s Chief Business Development Officer Mr Emmanuel Nyalali said the partnership will also address a low participation of Zanzibar-based institutions and investors in the stock market.

He said this move is expected to broaden access and deepen inclusion in the capital market ecosystem since the participation from Zanzibar has remained relatively low, both at institutional and individual levels.

“Awareness remains a key barrier, such that more effort is needed to sensitise institutions and the public on the benefits of capital markets.

“There is still significant work to be done in educating stakeholders and encouraging participation. By expanding access through the Registrar’s Office will be critical in driving that change,” he added.

He described the MoU signing as a significant milestone for the market, noting that it will enhance efficiency and open up new investment opportunities.