Zanzibar launches youth programme to tackle moral decline

ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR government has commended the Association for the Promotion of Islamic Knowledge and Ethics for launching a special Ramadan training programme aimed at nurturing young people with strong moral, religious and intellectual values.

Speaking at the launch of the ‘Zanzibar Youth Ramadan Light’ programme in Chukwani, Chief Secretary and Secretary to the Revolutionary Council, Engineer Zena Ahmed Said, said the initiative comes at a critical time when society is facing growing moral challenges affecting both youth and adults.

She attributed the trend to weak moral foundations during early childhood, noting that the absence of strong guidance and fear of God has contributed to unacceptable behaviour that threatens social wellbeing and the nation’s future.

Eng Zena described the programme as a timely intervention to instil ethical, spiritual and social values among young people, adding that with strong stakeholder support, it could drive positive transformation across generations.

“The government recognises the importance of youth in national development and will continue to collaborate with various organisations to ensure such initiatives are sustained and impactful,” she said.

She added that the programme will equip participants with life skills, discipline and moral values, enabling them to address life challenges through Islamic teachings and contribute meaningfully to national development.

Eng Zena also called on the community to take collective responsibility in raising children, urging a return to shared upbringing values where society plays an active role in shaping morals and discipline.

She further urged religious leaders to encourage youth to engage in productive and lawful activities, warning that idleness often exposes them to crime and harmful behaviour.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the association, Chairperson Ukhty Saada Mohammed Nassor described the initiative as a platform for promoting peace, unity and moral development among youth.

She stressed the importance of collaboration between religious institutions, government and the community.

Director of Administration and Human Resources at the Office of the Mufti of Zanzibar Sheikh Othman Mohammed Salum, called for the programme to be sustained beyond Ramadan to ensure long-term impact.

ALSO READ: Zanzibar clerics call for stronger moral upbringing of children and youth

Director of Waqf, Trust and Hajj, Ukhty Madina Haji Khamis, highlighted the dual role of technology, noting that while it can support learning and innovation, its misuse has contributed to moral decline.

She called for greater awareness on responsible use of digital platforms.

A statement read on behalf of the organisation by Dhulkarnayn Ally Mohammed said the programme also aims to promote innovation, entrepreneurship and the constructive use of technology among youth.

He noted that the initiative, which began last Ramadan with 19 participants, has since expanded.

Deputy Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training, Dr Mwanakhamis Adam Ameir, affirmed the ministry’s readiness to collaborate with religious institutions to prepare qualified teachers capable of guiding youth in both religious and modern contexts.

Participants also emphasised the need to guide, rather than restrict, the use of technology to ensure it contributes positively to youth development.

The Zanzibar Youth Ramadan Light programme is expected to play a key role in shaping disciplined, responsible and morally grounded youth, contributing to a more cohesive and values-driven society.