Mwinyi stresses unity, peace
PEMBA: ZANZIBAR President Hussein Mwinyi has called on citizens to safeguard peace and national unity, urging Muslims to uphold the teachings of the Hajj pilgrimage, which promote solidarity, compassion and social harmony.
Speaking during Eid al-Adha celebrations held at Tibirinzi Grounds in Chake Chake District, Pemba, Dr Mwinyi said the gathering of Muslims from different parts of the world in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, symbolises unity and togetherness.
He said the Hajj pilgrimage carries important lessons on peace, unity and caring for vulnerable groups in society.
According to the President, the teachings of Hajj also encourage proper management of wealth, health and time, while promoting good deeds, eliminating discrimination and strengthening social relations.
Dr Mwinyi urged citizens, particularly the youth, to avoid divisions and conflicts, warning that instability has caused suffering in some parts of the Middle East where people are celebrating Eid amid uncertainty.
He noted that ongoing conflicts have also contributed to fluctuations in global oil prices, negatively affecting economies worldwide.
“All governments, both the Union Government and the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar, are taking various measures to reduce the impact of rising oil prices. We urge citizens to continue safeguarding peace,” he said.
The event was attended by leaders from the public and private sectors, including First Lady Maryam Mwinyi, Second Vice President Hemed Suleiman Abdulla and Speaker of the House Zubeir Ali Maulid.
Dr Mwinyi also commended Hajj organisers for successfully coordinating this year’s pilgrimage for about 2,600 Tanzanian pilgrims.
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He further thanked the Government of Saudi Arabia and the Tanzanian Embassy in Saudi Arabia for their support in ensuring the success of the pilgrimage, adding that the government is working to address challenges facing pilgrims. Earlier, residents of Pemba joined the President in Eid prayers before he distributed gifts to children and vulnerable groups.
The celebrations later continued in both urban and rural areas, with residents visiting one another and marking Eid al-Adha in an atmosphere of unity and joy
