Progress marks 62 years of Union

ZANZIBAR: AS the nation marks 62 years of the Union, significant progress has been recorded in resolving longstanding challenges, with the number of Union issues steadily declining as efforts continue to strengthen cooperation between Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.

Minister of State in the Vice-President’s Office (Union and Environment), Engineer Hamad Yussuf Masauni, said the Union remains a key pillar for national development, opening up opportunities across sectors such as the blue economy, digital technology, agriculture, tourism and trade.

He said the number of longstanding Union issues, once standing at 25, has been significantly reduced, with only a few remaining as both sides continue to work towards their resolution, a development that reflects growing trust and collaboration between the two sides.

Speaking during the Union Conference and Innovation Exhibition for higher education students in Zanzibar, Engineer Masauni said the progress demonstrates the commitment of both governments to sustain and strengthen the merger for present and future generations.

He stressed that young people have a critical role to play in safeguarding the Union, noting that their participation is essential in shaping a stable and united future. “Young people must take ownership of the Union by promoting unity through their ideas, innovation and actions,” he said.

The minister encouraged youths to actively engage in constructive dialogue and use digital platforms, including social media, blogs and podcasts, to promote the values of unity, solidarity and national identity.

He also called on them to remain vigilant against misinformation and propaganda that could undermine the Union, urging them to participate in factchecking and public education efforts.

According to him, the Union is not only a historic achievement but also a strategic framework that continues to generate opportunities for economic growth, investment and social transformation.

He said cooperation between Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar has expanded across key sectors, enabling shared benefits and enhancing the country’s overall development trajectory.

Engineer Masauni added that the government continues to invest in public awareness programmes aimed at deepening understanding of the Union, particularly among young people who were born after its establishment.

These efforts include seminars, conferences and media programmes designed to promote knowledge of the Union’s history, structure and opportunities.

This position is reinforced in the government’s 2026/27 budget framework, which prioritises coordination of Union matters, strengthening cooperation between the two sides and completing the resolution of remaining issues.

The framework also emphasises the importance of public education on Union affairs, including programmes targeting youth and other groups to bridge knowledge gaps and enhance participation in national development.

Meanwhile, as Tanzania commemorates this year’s Union anniversary, the government has redirected funds initially set aside for celebrations to support the rehabilitation of roads damaged by ongoing rains.

Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba said the move reflects a shift towards addressing pressing development needs, particularly restoring transport and trade connectivity affected by the heavy rains.

He said leaders across the country will instead mark the occasion by inspecting and launching development projects, as well as engaging communities in activities that promote unity and national cohesion.

The decision, he added, underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that the spirit of the Union is reflected in tangible development outcomes that directly benefit citizens.