Clean, repair drainage systems – Second VP
ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR Second VicePresident, Hemed Suleiman Abdulla has directed authorities to urgently clean and repair drainage systems in Zanzibar City and other flood-prone areas to minimise flooding and disease risks as the islands prepare for expected El Niño rains.
Mr Abdulla issued the directive during inspection tours of drainage systems in Mfenesi Mazizi-Gulioni, Mayugwani, Amani Small Industries and Tomondo Changu in Magharibi “B” District.
He said blocked drainage channels, poor environmental cleanliness and stagnant water could obstruct the flow of rainwater, increase the risk of flooding and threaten public health.
“Cleanliness does not require rain. Even when there is no rain, these areas must remain clean,” he said, calling for stronger cooperation between authorities and residents.
Mr Hemed directed the Ministry of Construction and Transport to connect a drainage pipe at Mfenesi Mazizi-Gulioni within one week to allow water to flow freely.
He also instructed engineers and ministry officials to immediately resolve uncertainties over responsibility for infrastructure projects, which he said contributed to delays.
He warned that action would be taken against contractors who failed to fulfil their contractual obligations.
At Amani Small Industries and Tomondo Changu, Mr Abdulla directed authorities to remove drainage channels passing through residential areas and connect them to larger systems capable of safely carrying water to the sea.
He tasked the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, TAMISEMI, Magharibi “B” Municipality, the District Commissioner and engineers to ensure the work was completed quickly.
The Second Vice-President also ordered authorities to act against people constructing buildings in waterways and other high-risk areas, warning that unplanned development could obstruct water flow and worsen flooding.
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He further urged residents to stop dumping waste into drainage channels after observing plastic bottles, diapers and other rubbish blocking some systems.
Acting Minister for Health, Dr Saada Mkuya Salum said Amani had recorded high numbers of patients during cholera outbreaks, partly due to contaminated water flowing through the area.
She warned that flooding could also disrupt access to health facilities, particularly for pregnant women and other patients requiring urgent medical attention.
She recommended that drainage projects preserve access routes for emergency vehicles. Zanzibar City Mayor Mohamed Ibrahim Razali assured residents that all drainage channels would be cleaned ahead of the El Niño season.
Meanwhile, Secretary General in the President’s Office responsible for Regional Administration, Local Government and Special Departments, Mr Issa Mahfoudh Haji, said cleaning operations were ongoing in several parts of the city.
He said the exercise had covered Sebleni, Miembeni, Kwaboko, Kikwajuni, Chumbuni, Amani, Jangombe, Kibandamiti and Shauri Moyo, with Gulioni, ZECO and Mayugwani yet to be reached.
