Mwinyi backs Hajj pilgrims, woos Turkish investors to Zanzibar

ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR President Hussein Mwinyi has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving services for Hajj pilgrims while stepping up efforts to attract international investment to drive economic growth.

Speaking on Sunday during a farewell ceremony for pilgrims departing for the Hajj in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, held at Jamiu Zinjibar Mosque, Kiembe Samaki, Dr Mwinyi said the government, through the Waqf and Trust Commission, will continue enhancing Hajj services and addressing challenges faced by pilgrims.

He stressed that the Hajj pilgrimage is a fundamental obligation for Muslims as the fifth pillar of Islam, playing a key role in spiritual growth and moral development.

Dr Mwinyi said that Zanzibar has made steady progress in organising the pilgrimage, contributing to a growing number of participants and strengthening the Isles’ reputation.

“Maintain discipline and exemplary conduct throughout the Hajj to preserve Zanzibar’s standing as a source of wellprepared and well-managed pilgrims,” he urged.

The President also expressed appreciation to the Government of Saudi Arabia, Hajj service authorities, Saudi Airlines, and the Tanzanian Embassy for their continued support in ensuring smooth services for pilgrims.

He added that the government is finalising legal procedures to strengthen the Zanzibar Hajj Fund, which is already operational, with the aim of increasing the number of pilgrims each year.

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He also commended cooperation among Hajj institutions, the Waqf Commission, and other stakeholders. Meanwhile, Dr Mwinyi invited Turkish investors to explore opportunities in Zanzibar, particularly in trade, energy, and infrastructure.

He made the call during a meeting at the State House with Volkan Isikci, Director General for African Affairs at Türkiye’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who was accompanied by Bekir Geze.

Dr Mwinyi said increased investment from Türkiye would strengthen longstanding ties while opening new avenues for trade and economic cooperation. He highlighted priority sectors including energy, agriculture, tourism, healthcare, infrastructure, and value addition to local products.

For his part, Isikci reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to supporting Zanzibar’s economic development through collaboration in education, health, agriculture and tourism.