ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR President Dr Hussein Mwinyi has reiterated his government’s full commitment to strengthening partnerships with the private sector because it is an important factor in development and a key driver of innovation.
Dr Mwinyi made the remarks yesterday while officiating the opening of the Zanzibar National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC) 15th Annual General Meeting (AGM), which culminated in the election of new leaders for the chamber.
“The government will always maintain good relations with the private sector, viewing Continued from Page 1 it as an important stakeholder in social, political and economic development,” Dr Mwinyi said.
Speaking on the theme of the meeting, “Building a Sustainable Future Together: Digital Use as the Key to the Development of the Blue Economy,” President Mwinyi assured that the government would provide all kinds of support and cooperation to the ZNCC and its members.
Dr Mwinyi praised the private sector, acknowledging its role in providing goods and services, generating tax revenues, and developing new and innovative solutions to address development challenges.
Furthermore, the president mentioned that the process of reviewing laws and policies regarding the private sector is already underway under the supervision of the Ministry of Trade and Industry Development and the Zanzibar Business Council (ZBC) secretariat.
“I hereby direct the Minister of Trade and Industrial Development, Mr Omar Said Shaaban, to oversee the completion of the improved legislation by the end of this year,” Dr Mwinyi said.
He also urged ZNCC members to continue promoting Zanzibar through the effective use of various national and international platforms. Promoting Zanzibar abroad will attract more investors to the country, creating job opportunities for young people and contributing to the country’s economic growth.
Dr Mwinyi highlighted the government’s efforts to improve various systems to create a business-friendly environment in the country, emphasising the adoption of science and technology to simplify service provision.
He stressed that as the government improves the business environment, including the legal framework, members of the business community are expected to avoid unnecessary price hikes and voluntarily pay taxes.
Dr Mwinyi emphasised that revenue collection is necessary for the government to provide various development services to citizens, including medical care, education, and infrastructure improvements such as roads and airports. Before inviting the president to speak, Minister Shabani explained that the eighth phase government under Dr Mwinyi has been working diligently to make Zanzibar the best place for investors and businesses.
“I urge the private sector, especially ZNCC members, to continue working with the government by following laws and increasing production,” the minister said.
ZNCC chairperson Mr Ali Amour also commended the government, under the strong leadership of Dr. Mwinyi, for improving the business environment.
