China, Zanzibar strengthen research cooperation
ZANZIBAR: A HIGH-PROFILE delegation of professors, researchers and academic professionals from leading Chinese universities has visited Zanzibar to explore avenues for strengthening research collaboration in key sectors aligned with the island’s development priorities.
Led by Professor Li Xiaoyun of China Agricultural University, the eight-member delegation met with officials from the Ministry of Trade and Industrial Development and the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, Natural Resources and Livestock in Maruhubi.
“This is an opportunity for Zanzibar to request training and expertise that can improve efficiency within government institutions for the benefit of the people,” said Prof Li.
“China and Zanzibar have a long-standing partnership in research, particularly in agriculture, fisheries, livestock and other sectors.” Professor Xiuli Xu, another member of the delegation, underscored the value of mutual learning.
“We are here to learn about local policymaking, policy implementation and social structures. Deeper cooperation begins with mutual understanding and we also hope Zanzibar can learn from us to advance South-South cooperation.” Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Trade and Industrial Development, Ms Fatma Mabrouk Khamis, encouraged government officers—especially those who have studied in China—to strengthen ties and seek further training to drive institutional transformation.
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Dr Masoud Rashid Mohamed, Executive Director of Zanzibar Treasury Sukuk1 Limited and Director of the Zanzibar Seaweed Company (ZASCO), highlighted challenges such as underperformance and workplace absenteeism in public institutions, urging China to continue offering training to build a skilled generation capable of advancing Zanzibar’s development.
Senior Industrial Development Officer Mr Yahya Khatib Haji said the visit could enhance collaboration between Zanzibar’s public universities and Chinese institutions.
“China’s research approach delivers rapid results. By adopting similar methods and using data systems, Zanzibar can accelerate its development just like China,” he said.
Ms Jamila Haji Ali, from the Institute of Marine Resources and Fisheries, noted that the visit sought to foster institutional cooperation and address challenges in conducting effective research.
She stressed the need to protect marine ecosystems, particularly in fisheries research, for the benefit of future generations.
Professor Li Shuzhuo concluded by emphasising that development planning requires close cooperation between both countries and called on Zanzibar researchers to remind EWURA to conduct quality inspection of all gas pumps in Northern Zone.
