Mwinyi: Govt set to unlock Pemba’s economic potential

ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR President Dr Hussein Mwinyi has reaffirmed his government commitment to accelerating Pemba’s economic transformation through major infrastructure projects. He cited the ongoing construction of a new airport, seaport and road networks, 70 per cent of which are already completed.

President Mwinyi made the remarks on Wednesday during a meeting with a high-level United Kingdom delegation led by Member of Parliament and the UK Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to East Africa, Ms Kate Osamor at the State House in Zanzibar.

He noted that Pemba’s delayed economic develop ment has been largely due to the absence of essential infrastructure, which is crucial for unlocking the island’s full economic potential.

“Pemba’s delayed economic integration has primarily stemmed from the lack of key infrastructure, which is critical to driving sustainable economic growth,” said Dr Mwinyi.

President Mwinyi also drew attention to the seaweed farming sector, which largely involves Zanzibari women. Despite growth in production, he said prices remain unsatisfactory.

“I urge you to explore ways to support seaweed producers, particularly by enhancing the value of the crop through innovation and improved market access,” Dr Mwinyi said.

Dr Mwinyi further encouraged the UK to promote private sector investment in Zanzibar, noting its importance in realising Zanzibar Vision 2050, the Isles’ longterm blueprint for economic development.

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“Private sector involvement is key to achieving our development goals. We welcome partnerships that promote sustainable growth, create jobs and spur innovation,” he added.

British High Commissioner to Tanzania, Ambassador Marianne Young, commended Zanzibar’s momentum in key sectors and reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.

“The UK is pleased to witness Zanzibar’s positive trajectory and remains committed to supporting its development aspirations,” said Ambassador Young.

Meanwhile, President Mwinyi also hosted a delegation from China’s Institute of Chinese Materia Medica (ICMM) on Tuesday, inviting Chinese investors to explore opportunities in Zanzibar’s healthcare sector, particularly in traditional medicine research.

He praised China’s continued support for Zanzibar since the Revolution, especially in sectors such as health, education and infrastructure.

“China has consistently supported us, especially in health, where specialist medical teams regularly visit to provide services, supplies and training,” President Mwinyi noted.

The Chinese delegation, led by Professor Song Li Juan, ICMM Deputy Director, said the visit was aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in healthcare and research, aligned with the outcomes of the 2024 Beijing Summit on health system strengthening in Africa.

“Our visit is focused on advancing collaboration in health research and traditional medicine development,” said Prof Song.

The team also met with officials from the Zanzibar Health Research Institute (ZAHRI), which reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with China in medical research.