Zanzibar fast-tracks seaweed factory
ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR’S Second VicePresident, Hemed Suleiman Abdulla, has directed authorities to fast-track completion of the seaweed processing factory under construction in Chamanangwe, Wete District, North Pemba, as the government seeks to provide a reliable market for farmers and revive the sector.
The directive comes as the government intensifies efforts to address long-standing challenges facing seaweed farmers, many of them women, who have struggled with unreliable markets, forcing some to abandon the oncethriving trade.
During an inspection visit to the project site, the 2nd VP said the government is committed to strengthening the seaweed industry through value addition and industrial processing to improve farmers’ incomes.
“For a long time, farmers have lacked a dependable market for their produce, forcing many, especially women, to abandon seaweed farming.
This factory will provide a lasting solution by guaranteeing a market and improving incomes,” he said.
He directed the Ministry of Blue Economy and Fisheries to expedite the delivery of equipment delayed by transportation challenges, stressing that all materials must reach Pemba without further delay to keep the project on schedule.
The Second Vice- President also urged the ministry to work closely with farmers by addressing their concerns and providing modern farming tools and training to boost productivity and profitability.
He further called on residents of North Pemba to protect public infrastructure and maintain peace, saying stability is essential for sustainable development.
Zanzibar Seaweed Company (ZAFCO) Director General Nassor Rashid Moh’d said installation of machinery, including systems for seaweed processing and animal feed production, is currently underway.
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Upon completion, the factory is expected to process more than 40,000 kilogrammes of raw seaweed daily, produce up to 22,000 litres of liquid fertiliser and manufacture seaweed powder for pharmaceutical and food industries, significantly increasing the crop’s market value.
The Chamanangwe plant is being constructed by MGR Investment at a cost of 15.9bn/- and is expected to be completed and become operational by December 2026.
During the tour, Mr Abdulla also inspected several development projects across Pemba, including water storage tanks at Mtambwe, where he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring a reliable supply of clean and safe water.
He directed the Ministry of Water, Energy and Minerals to closely monitor ongoing projects, promptly address emerging challenges and ensure they are completed on time and to the required standards.
Mr Abdulla also reviewed progress on the 6.5-kilometre Bwagamoyo-Matuuni-Kele Mwambwe road, urging contractors to complete drainage works and install road signs to improve safety for motorists and pedestrians.
He later visited newly constructed sports grounds at Kinyikani village, describing them as an opportunity to nurture sporting talent, promote sports tourism and contribute to Pemba’s economic growth.
The inspection tour also covered Kiuyu Primary School, road construction projects, water infrastructure and other community development initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life of residents.
