‘Isles revolution leaves legacy of transformation, reforms’
DAR ES SALAAM: THE Zanzibar Revolution, now 61 years old, has had a lasting impact, providing political independence to Zanzibaris and inspiring a shift toward full economic liberation, according to experts.
In an exclusive interview, Professor Khoti Kamanga, an international law expert and political analyst at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), discussed the transformative impact of the Zanzibar Revolution.
He emphasised how it empowered Zanzibaris to gain control over their economy, setting the stage for inclusive prosperity.
According to Prof Kamanga, the revolution allowed Zanzibaris to effectively utilise their abundant natural resources, particularly their water bodies, through initiatives such as the blue economy.
This marked a stark contrast to the colonial era, during which the resources were underexploited and the local population was marginalised under Sultanate rule.
“Since the revolution, Zanzibar has turned challenges into opportunities, constructing ports to facilitate trade and developing the blue economy. These efforts have created jobs for citizens and increased government revenue,” he explained.
He also highlighted Zanzibar’s progress in modernising urban areas to boost trade and tourism, which have been essential in uplifting the island’s economy.
On the political front, Zanzibar took a significant step by adopting a Bill of Rights early on, promoting human rights and democracy.
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Prof Kamanga pointed out that the current Government of National Unity (GNU) fosters peaceful coexistence and strengthens political stability.
Political analyst Hamiduni Maliseli, based in Mwanza, viewed the revolution as a “new dawn” that ended colonial oppression and racial discrimination. He noted that the revolution brought freedom and equitable access to resources, helping to lay the foundation for poverty reduction.
“Social services such as water, education, electricity and healthcare have significantly improved since the colonial era, where the native population faced segregation and humiliation,” Maliseli observed.
He also mentioned the booming real estate sector, particularly with the growth of hotels, as an indication of Zanzibar’s bright future in tourism and business.
However, Maliseli stressed that the sustainability of Zanzibar’s progress depends on strengthening the union between Zanzibar and mainland Tanzania. Economist Dr Isaac Safari from the Saint Augustine University of Tanzania (SAUT) lauded the economic progress Zanzibar has made over the past 61 years.
He pointed to the diversification of economic activities, including farming, fishing, trade, tourism and the blue economy, as key contributors to improving citizens’ livelihoods.
“The future of Zanzibar’s economy is promising,” Dr Safari said, commending President Dr Hussein Mwinyi for his commitment to infrastructure development, such as roads, schools and electricity, which attract both local and foreign investors.
The Zanzibar Revolution, which occurred on January 12, 1964, was a pivotal moment in the island’s history. Led by the Afro-Shirazi Party and Abeid Amani Karume, it overthrew the Sultan of Zanzibar and his predominantly Arab government, marking a turning point that empowered the majority Black African population and began a new era of progress.
Today, the Zanzibar Revolution stands as a symbol of political, social and economic transformation. With continued commitment to development, unity and good governance, experts are optimistic that Zanzibar is set for even greater achievements in the future.
