Govt to prioritise infrastructure investment

ZANZIBAR: VICE-PRESIDENT Dr Phillip Mpango has pledged that the Union and Zanzibar governments will continue to invest heavily in roads construction, rehabilitation and maintenance because it is crucial for the country’s development process.

Dr Mpango said as Zanzibar marks 61 years of revolution, the governments in both sides of the union are committed to strengthening infrastructure to ensure the country’s development.

“The government is aware that it needs to invest in the construction, rehabilitation and maintenance of roads and bridges to ensure better mobility of people and smooth flow of goods from the production sites to markets,” Dr Mpango said in his speech read at the inauguration of the Nungwi road in North Unguja Region.

Dr Mpango’s speech was read on his behalf by Minister for Works, Mr Abdallah Ulega. He said the improvement of road infrastructure is a clear indicator of the commitment that emanates from the 1964 Zanzibar Revolution to liberate Zanzibaris from colonial rule and bring about economic transformation.

He further said road construction in various parts of the country serves as a catalyst for economic growth, as it facilitates transportation and mobility services within communities, leading to increased income for citizens and the nation as a whole.

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Regarding the newly built roads in Nungwi, one of the famous tourist attraction sites, he noted that the roads will enhance the appearance of the area, boosting the growth of tourism activities.

North Unguja Regional Commissioner (RC) Mattar Zahor Masoud urged residents in the region to honour the founders and elders of revolution, emphasising that the revolution has been a driver of development, including liberating Zanzibaris from colonial hardships.

Permanent Secretary in the Zanzibar’s Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications and Transport, Dr Habiba Hassan Omar explained that the construction of the roads in Nungwi adhered to the required quality standards and addresses the needs of all road users, including streetlights, pedestrian walkways and pipelines for water services.