Isles prioritises better housing, business environment
ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR’S Minister of State in the President’s Office for Labour, Economy and Investments, Sharif Ali Sharif, has reiterated the government’s commitment to improving housing and creating a business-friendly environment, which he views as crucial for economic growth and poverty alleviation.
Speaking at the inauguration of a renovated residential and commercial building in Mnadani Darajani, Stone Town, Unguja Urban District, Mr Sharif emphasised that a conducive business climate and modern housing would attract both local and foreign investment, generate employment and provide opportunities for Zanzibaris.
He noted that Sheikh Abeid Amani Karume, the founder of the Zanzibar Revolution, had prioritised improving housing for citizens.
In the course, housing initiatives were introduced in various areas such as Michenzani, Kikwajuni, Makunduchi, Gamba and Bambi in Unguja, as well as in Micheweni, Wete, Mtemani and Madungu in Pemba.
Under the leadership of President Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, housing remains one of the key priorities alongside tourism, the blue economy, infrastructure and social services.
“The government has a fundamental responsibility to provide a conducive living environment for all citizens of Unguja and Pemba,” Mr Sharif said, praising the Zanzibar Housing Corporation (ZHC) for its housing development achievements.
ZHC has successfully completed several projects, including 72 residential houses at Kwa-Mchina, eight houses and 20 shops at Mkungu Malofa in Pemba and four-storey residential buildings and shops at Darajani-Kwa Fundi Abdul and Mnadani-Darajani.
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Deputy Minister for Land and Housing Development, Ms Salha Mohammed Mwinjuma, also urged the Revolutionary Government to allocate sufficient funds for ongoing housing projects across Zanzibar.
She noted that the government had set a goal to build 120 new houses and renovate 300 development houses, along with 164 nondevelopment houses.
“We have successfully completed the renovation and construction of the houses being inaugurated today, as outlined in the manifesto,” she said, adding that progress would continue as funding becomes available. ZHC Director General, Sultan Said Suleiman, provided a technical overview of the renovation project.
The building, located at Mkunazini Mnadani, underwent significant upgrades to its façade to preserve the historical value of Stone Town. After renovations, the building now includes five self-contained residential units and eight commercial spaces, with shopfronts.
The project, managed by ZHC Company Limited in consultation with ZIC Consultancy Firm, began on June 16, 2023 and was completed on December 30, 2024, at a cost of 570m/-.
This event marked part of the celebrations for the 61st anniversary of the 1964 Zanzibar Revolution, underscoring the government’s ongoing commitment to development and progress in the region.
The successful renovation and new housing projects in Zanzibar are part of broader efforts to improve infrastructure, boost economic growth and improve the living conditions of residents.
The government’s focus on housing development and creating a business-friendly environment is seen as a vital step in shaping the future of Zanzibar’s economy and ensuring prosperity for its citizens.
