Stone town residents directed to leave unsafe buildings

ZANZIBAR: THE Zanzibar government has directed residents living in structurally unsafe buildings in Stone Town to relocate to safer areas ahead of the heavy rains, which are expected in the coming months.

The directive was issued by Minister for Lands and Housing Development, Ms Rahma Kassim Ali and Minister of State in the Second Vice-President’s Office, Policy, Coordination and House of Representatives, Mr Hamza Hassan Juma during an inspection of buildings, which pose risks to residents.

The ministers said the move aims to protect lives and property and allow repairs and other safety measures to be carried out before disasters occur.

“The government has no intention of victimising its citizens. Our aim is to protect the lives and property of residents and prevent disasters that could occur,” Ms Ali said.

She said the inspection identified several buildings whose structural condition could endanger residents and directed those affected to relocate to safer locations to allow authorities to carry out repairs and other safety interventions.

Mr Juma said residents identified for relocation must comply with the directive by October 15, this year, as part of precautionary measures to reduce the risk of disasters associated with heavy rainfall.

ALSO READ: How Zanzibar is breathing new Life into Stone Town’s historic treasures

“The government does not want to wait for a disaster to occur before taking action. These directives are preventive measures aimed at protecting the lives and property of our people,” he said.

The directive comes as authorities prepare for the Vuli rains, with residents in vulnerable areas advised to follow official weather and disaster-management guidance.

Some residents welcomed the government’s intervention but appealed for assistance in securing alternative accommodation, saying some families currently have nowhere else to go.

The inspection, organised by the Ministry of Lands and Housing Development, involved officials from the Wakf and Trust Property Commission, the Stone Town Conservation and Development Authority and the Mjini District Commissioner’s Office.

The team inspected several locations, including Maro Mtendeni House, as well as buildings managed by the Zanzibar Housing Corporation and privately owned properties requiring urgent attention.

The government said renovation plans for affected buildings would continue while efforts are made to ensure residents have access to safe and decent housing.