Mwinyi cherishes China’s support in key sectors

ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR President Hussein Mwinyi has expressed the government’s profound appreciation for the longstanding and wide-ranging support provided by the People’s Republic of China, particularly in the areas of health, education and investment.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by the newly appointed Chinese Consul General in Zanzibar, Mr Li Quanghua, at the State House on Monday, President Mwinyi commended China’s contributions, which include the deployment of specialist medical teams to public hospitals and the provision of scholarships for Zanzibari students.

During their meeting, President Mwinyi highlighted priority areas for continued collaboration.

He called for increased Chinese investment in Zanzibar, strengthened bilateral trade ties, and the expansion of youth empowerment initiatives especially vocational training programmes to help tackle high youth unemployment driven by a mismatch between skills and labour market needs.

He also identified tourism as a strategic sector, proposing the establishment of direct flights between China and Zanzibar.

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“This would significantly boost tourist arrivals, deepen cultural exchanges, and stimulate economic growth,” President Mwinyi stated. In response, Consul General Li expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome he has received since arriving in Zanzibar.

“In the short time I’ve been here, I’ve visited several development projects and I am truly impressed by the pace of progress under President Mwinyi’s leadership,” he said.

Meanwhile, a team of Chinese medical doctors currently stationed in Zanzibar recently carried out health check-ups and provided medical services to children at the Mazizini Orphanage Centre. Team leader Dr Wei Chen reported that 60 children received medical care during the outreach.

“Regular health screenings are crucial for children in orphanages like Mazizini, helping to identify and treat potential health concerns early on, ensuring healthier and happier lives,” he noted.

Dr Chen reaffirmed the team’s ongoing commitment to supporting Zanzibar’s health sector through direct medical services, professional training for local healthcare workers, and the supply of essential medical equipment and resources.

He also confirmed that the medical team would continue to serve communities across both Unguja and Pemba islands, with a focus on supporting vulnerable and special-needs groups.

Ms Wahida Abdalla Hassan, a caretaker at the Mazizini Orphanage, expressed heartfelt thanks for the Chinese doctors’ continuing support.

“We are sincerely grateful for the care provided to our children, including thorough health checks and treatment. We hope these services will continue to help prevent and manage illnesses among our children,” she said.

The 34th Chinese medical team has maintained a steady commitment to delivering healthcare services and conducting community health assessments across Zanzibar, with particular attention to remote and underserved areas.