China boosts Zanzibar’s public media

ZANZIBAR: CHINA, through its Consul General in Zanzibar, Mr Li Qianghua, has officially handed over a newly renovated, state-of-the-art building and advanced digital communication equipment to Zanzibar public television and radio station.

The handover ceremony, held at the Ministry of State, President’s Office, Finance and Planning conference hall, marks a significant boost to the country’s media sector. Speaking at the event, Consul General Li revealed that the major renovation project cost 26.82 million yuan (CNY) (about 9.8bn/-).

The documents were received by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Juma Malik Akil, who expressed sincere gratitude to China for its ongoing support in transforming Zanzibar’s public media landscape.

“We deeply appreciate this generous contribution from our long-standing friend, China. Our countries share historic ties, built by the visionary leaders of Tanzania and China. This support strengthens our media sector, and we are committed to ensuring the proper maintenance of the building and equipment in honour of this assistance,” said Dr Akil.

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The Zanzibar Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) building, located in Rahaleo and originally constructed by China in 1993, had deteriorated over the years.

The renovation has not only restored the facility but also modernised it, equipping it with cutting-edge studios for both television and radio.

ZBC Director Mr Ramadhan Bukin acknowledged China’s support, explaining that a previous plan to construct a new media headquarters in Tunguu has been abandoned in favor of utilising the newly renovated Rahaleo building.

“With modern studios and upgraded equipment, this facility now serves as the ZBC headquarters,” he said, while China reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Zanzibar’s development and promised continued collaboration across various sectors.