Mwinyi puts culture at heart of Kizimkazi Festival

ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR President Hussein Ali Mwinyi has positioned the Kizimkazi Festival as more than a celebration of culture, saying the annual event can open up tourism, business and investment opportunities, particularly in the Blue Economy.

Mwinyi made the remarks while officially launching the 2026 Kizimkazi Festival in South Unguja after participating in a walk marathon and a business exhibition.

He said the festival had grown in popularity since its establishment, attracting participants from across Zanzibar, mainland Tanzania and abroad, and had become an important platform for showcasing the country’s economic and social opportunities.

Mwinyi said activities including dhow races, cultural performances, sports, traditional food exhibitions, music and development project launches were helping preserve Zanzibar’s cultural heritage and pass it on to future generations.

He said the government would continue using tourism festivals and special events to promote Zanzibar’s attractions and support its goal of increasing tourist arrivals.

“Residents and various stakeholders should take advantage of the business exhibitions held alongside the festival to gain knowledge, acquire new skills and make use of available opportunities to strengthen their businesses,” he said.

Mwinyi also directed authorities in South Unguja to use the festival to promote investment opportunities in land and marine areas, saying the resources should be harnessed to generate greater benefits for citizens and the government

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. He assured investors that the government would continue improving the investment environment, particularly in tourism, manufacturing and the Blue Economy.

South Unguja Regional Commissioner Hamida Mussa Khamis said the festival had created opportunities for residents, including access to financial services as institutions brought their services closer to communities.

She urged investors and other stakeholders to take advantage of opportunities in South Unguja, assuring them of continued support from the government and local communities.

Kizimkazi Festival 2026 coordinator, Makunduchi MP and Mwanamke Initiative Foundation chairperson Wanu Hafidh Ameir, said the foundation was contributing to efforts to address social challenges, particularly in health, by supporting women, children and other community groups.

She thanked Mwinyi for taking part in the special walk, saying his participation highlighted the importance of regular exercise and healthy living.