ZANZIBAR: PRESIDENT Hussein Mwinyi has applauded Finland for its contributions to Zanzibar that have fast-tracked realisation of the Islands’ development objectives.
Dr Mwinyi also praised the active bilateral relations, particularly in areas of education, agriculture and health as well as women’s issues including gender-based violence, to promotion of women’s and children’s rights.
The isles President expressed his gratitude when he received the Finnish Ambassador to Tanzania, Ms Theresa Zitting and her delegation at the Zanzibar State House.
“Accept our sincere thanks for your support as we also struggle to boost the tourism sector, the leading contributor to our economic growth, and also contributing about 30 per cent to Zanzibar’s GDP,” he said.
Dr Mwinyi said, Zanzibar’s current focus was on the blue economy which carries five aspects – tourism, fishing, shipping/transportation, sea ports development and oil & gas.
He inviting investors from Finland to invest in the blue economy.
“We still have many investment opportunities in those areas as we also promote cultural, heritage and other types of tourism. Tell investors in Finland that we welcome them and we assure them of a conducive environment,” Dr Mwinyi emphasised.
Regarding fishing industry, President Mwinyi highlighted fish farming of different marine species and sea cucumber, along with seaweed farming, which has changed the welfare of majority of women and young girls who most of them engage in the business.
Dr Mwinyi appealed to the envoy to consider strengthening cooperation to further support Zanzibar to improve its infrastructure in education, health and energy, especially in modernising its systems.
Ambassador Zitting assured Zanzibar President that the Finnish government remains committed to maintaining relations with Zanzibar and continue supporting in various development issues.
“Finland has been supporting Zanzibar and Tanzania in general in various areas especially in the Education sector, environment conservation, land, forests and other development issues,” she said.
Ambassador Zitting said Finland highly values the relationship and cooperation with Tanzania, as well as other countries in East Africa.