TANGANYIKA AND ZANZIBAR: A unique Union model in Africa and the world

THOSE who have closely followed this Union and recognise Tanzania’s pride in it have every reason to celebrate this anniversary with a sense of honour.

Like many Tanzanians, I hold this Union in high regard. This sentiment reflects the vision of our forefathers, Mwalimu Julius Nyerere and Aman Abeid Karume, who saw the need to unite these nations for the benefit of their people.

It is our duty to safeguard this legacy for the good of our nation and the future of our children.

As we commemorate this Union’s anniversary, we must commend our leaders on both sides for their tireless efforts in resolving issues that have caused minor disputes. Their commitment to maintaining unity is commendable.

We have every reason to applaud our collective efforts to address the remaining issues for the greater good of the Tanzanian nation. Our unity and solidarity make this Union unique.

One of the main reasons I am proud of it is that Tanzania, formed by the union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar, is often seen as a rare and exemplary political arrangement in the world due to its peaceful formation, uncommon structure and enduring coexistence of two distinct entities.

In my view, the union between the island nation of Zanzibar and the mainland nation of Tanganyika, established on April 26, 1964, was a peaceful, voluntary agreement resulting from mutual consent rather than conflict or conquest.

Shortly after Zanzibar’s revolution, both leaders Julius Nyerere of Tanganyika and Abeid Amani Karume of Zanzibar negotiated and agreed to come together.

Tanzania remains one of the few African countries where two independent republics voluntarily united to form a single nation. For those unfamiliar with the history, this fact is particularly significant.

Under this union, our dual government structure operates through a distinctive system: the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar (RGZ) manages local affairs within the islands, including having its own President, Legislature and Judiciary, while the Union Government is responsible for national and international matters such as foreign policy, defence and finance.

When compared with other global unions, it becomes clear that our model represents a unique form of asymmetric federalism granting Zanzibar significant autonomy while remaining an integral part of a single State.

Many may not know that Zanzibar maintains its own political, cultural and legal identity despite being part of the Union.

It retains a President, a House of Representatives and an independent judicial system.

This unusual coexistence allows Zanzibar to preserve its distinct Swahili-Arab heritage, which continues to be a unique attraction for tourism.

Our Union demonstrates how two regions with different colonial backgrounds, religious traditions and political systems Zanzibar, an Arabinfluenced sultanate and Tanganyika, a British colonial territory can come together to build a lasting partnership. I proudly celebrate this anniversary by praising our Union as a model of unity in diversity.

It stands as an example of integration, tolerance and compromise in a world where political and ethnic divisions often lead to conflict. Naturally, visionary leadership and pragmatic reforms are necessary to preserve the Union in today’s dynamic environment.

ALSO READ: Reflecting on historic Union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar

For the Union between the mainland and Zanzibar to endure and strengthen, Tanzania must focus on several critical areas: promoting nationalism, addressing global economic changes and advancing digital transformation. Deepening trust and fostering inclusive dialogue are essential to preserving the Tanzania-Zanzibar union.

We must continue educating younger generations about the Union’s significance and uniqueness.

Regular, open and inclusive discussions involving stakeholders from both sides including government, civil society, youth, women and businesses are vital, as we are a living society with diverse opinions and perspectives.

Establishing a permanent Union Council or People’s Forum to handle grievances and openly examine union affairs could enhance unity.

This would support continuous engagement between Zanzibar and the mainland in commerce, education and civil society.

Reducing economic disparities requires equitable development and balanced investment between Zanzibar and the mainland.

The mainland’s green economy including agriculture, mining and renewable energy should be supported alongside Zanzibar’s blue economy, which encompasses fishing, marine tourism, ports, gas and oil.

Fair access to national resources and infrastructure investment in areas like ports, roads, energy and technology will help position Tanzania as a model for the rest of the world.

This progress can be achieved if Union responsibilities remain clear and manageable.

Reviewing the list of union matters and removing outdated or contentious items through constitutional or legislative reforms would help clarify jurisdiction between the Union and Zanzibar.

Joint Union audits and regular reporting could also promote transparency and accountability, further strengthening the merger.

It is important to highlight the achievements and sacrifices made by both sides while promoting civic education, national identity, union history and the values of unity in schools.

This effort should be complemented by ongoing media campaigns and cultural events that promote Swahili and interregional integration.

Internationally, we must continue adapting to shifts in the global economy and geopolitics.

This includes building economic resilience through regional trade integration such as the East African Community and AfCFTA embracing the digital economy and diversifying in tourism and manufacturing.

These efforts will boost international trade, security, and climate cooperation while preserving Tanzania’s sovereignty.

The Union must be protected from external interference that may exploit internal divisions for selfish gains. Internally, gender inclusion and youth empowerment must be prioritised.

We must create more opportunities for youth employment and entrepreneurship in both Zanzibar and the mainland.

At the same time, women’s leadership and participation in local and Union government should be actively promoted.

A shared vision of peace, prosperity and progress that transcends politics should guide our next generation.

Ultimately, we must continue strengthening institutions and upholding the rule of law. Democratic institutions must be empowered to protect the constitutional framework of both the mainland and Zanzibar.

Union matters should not be politicised but resolved through independent and accountable institutions. Civil rights and judicial independence must be protected for both governments.

The elders once said, “There is no long road without a corner.” Throughout our Union’s journey, we have encountered challenges ranging from discussions on economic inequality to representation in the Union government and autonomy.

Yet, Tanzania’s ability to manage these differences without serious conflict or secession provides valuable lessons for regions elsewhere considering similar unions.

What matters most is that our Union remains special because of the unity, solidarity and understanding we share.

Our pride in this union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar stems from these very principles, which form its foundation.

Dr Shayo is an economist-cum-investment banker and a Daily News columnist.

He can be reached at shayohill@yahoo.co.uk

Related Articles

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Back to top button