Zanzibar ramps up digital transformation
ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR has stepped up its digital transformation drive with the launch of a new policy aimed at building a more inclusive and digitally enabled economy.
The Digital Transformation Policy was launched on Tuesday at the Tech & AI Expo Zanzibar 2026, marking an important milestone towards a more inclusive and digital-led economy.
Speaking at the launching ceremony, United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) Representative in Tanzania, Mr Shigeki Komatsubara underlined the importance of technology in improving people’s livelihoods across all walks of life.
“Digital transformation is not ultimately about technology. It is about what technology makes possible for people,” Mr Komatsubara said.
He said the policy reinforces the importance of connecting digital transformation with access to finance, entrepreneurship, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) growth and job creation.
Mr Komatsubara noted that the next chapter is turning digital ambition into inclusive economic opportunities for businesses, women, young people and communities across Zanzibar.
For his part, Zanzibar President Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi highlighted the importance of the broader ecosystem required for a successful digital economy.
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“We recognise that infrastructure alone is not sufficient,” he said.
Through the EU-funded Tanzania Inclusive Digital Economy (TIDE) Programme, UNCDF has been supporting the government of Zanzibar since 2023 in the development of the policy.
