How new infra propel economic growth in Zanzibar
DODOMA: ZANZIBAR is undergoing a transformative period of infrastructure development across road, air and sea transportation, with significant projects aimed at enhancing connectivity, stimulating economic growth and improving the quality of life for citizens.
Second Vice-President (2VP) of Zanzibar, Hemed Suleiman Abdulla, stated this during the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) extraordinary meeting in Dodoma, where he reviewed progress on the party’s 2020/2025 election manifesto over the past four years.
Mr Abdulla reaffirmed the government’s dedication to improving road infrastructure, reporting that 70 per cent of urban road construction, spanning 100.9 km, is complete.
Feeder roads totalling 275.9 km in Unguja and Pemba are 71 per cent completed, while main roads covering 277 km across both islands are progressing steadily.
He noted that Zanzibar’s first-ever flyover projects are also nearing completion, with the Mwanakwerekwe flyover 90 per cent complete and the Amani flyover at 36 per cent, both designed to ease traffic congestion and improve urban mobility.
The Vice-President touted remarkable progress in the air transport sector, including partnerships with DNATA and Emirates Leisure Retail that have improved ground handling and luxury services at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (AAKIA).
These efforts have driven a 245.4 per cent increase in airport revenues, from 11.641bn/- in 2020/2021 to 40.209bn/- in 2023/2024.
AAKIA has been recognised as Africa’s best airport, now serving 2 million passengers annually. By mid-2024, 1,014,530 travellers had already been served.
The number of airlines operating in Zanzibar has risen by 16 per cent, from 68 to 81 carriers, reflecting enhanced global connectivity.
Ongoing renovations at Terminal 2, currently 60 per cent complete, will feature VIP lounges, private jet facilities and expanded commercial spaces, further elevating the airport’s status.
ALSO READ: Isles registers progress in social welfare
Additionally, preparations for Pemba Airport construction, valued at 170 million Euros and undertaken by Propav JV Company of Brazil, have commenced. Mr Abdulla also underscored the critical role of seaports in Zanzibar’s economic development.
Major upgrades are underway at Malindi, Fumba, Mkokotoni and Mkoani Pemba ports to accommodate larger container ships, reducing costs for businesses and citizens.
The government is constructing the Shumba-Mjini Port in Pemba’s Micheweni District to enhance trade and transport links with Kenya, Pemba, Unguja and Tanga.
Plans for a new passenger port in Maruhubi, through a build-operate-transfer agreement and an oil and gas port are also advancing.
The Vice-President celebrated the completion of an oil storage depot by United Petroleum (UP), featuring modern systems for the efficient transport and storage of oil and gas.
“These infrastructure projects showcase the government’s vision to modernise Zanzibar, promising enhanced mobility, global connectivity and economic prosperity,” Mr Abdulla stated, positioning Zanzibar firmly on the path to sustainable development.
