Zanzibar strengthens global ties, public communication in first 100 days

ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR government has intensified regional and international engagement, strengthened public communication and improved records management systems during the first 100 days of President Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi’s second-term administration.

Presenting a progress report, the Minister of State in the President’s Office, Dr Saada Mkuya Salum, said the government has made notable strides in safeguarding national interests and enhancing transparency in governance.

On the diplomatic front, Zanzibar actively participated in key regional forums, including the Southern African Development Community (SADC) ministerial meeting on politics, defence and security.

The engagement helped reinforce cooperation and protect Zanzibar’s strategic interests in regional security and economic matters.

The government also took part in high-level meetings within the East African Community (EAC), focusing on trade regulations, taxation issues and the removal of non-tariff barriers to boost regional trade.

Efforts to expand economic participation included training programmes for women under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), aimed at increasing their role in cross-border trade.

Authorities also convened a national blue economy forum to promote value addition in seaweed farming through public-private partnerships.

In strengthening ties with the diaspora, the government officially launched a Diaspora Registration System in January 2026 to collect data on skills, investments and expertise.

So far, 333 new members have registered, bringing the total number to 1,313.

Additionally, 12 work permits and 16 residence permits were processed for diaspora members engaged in economic activities as part of efforts to create a more enabling environment for their contribution to national development.

She said the government has enhanced communication between the presidency and citizens through expanded media outreach.

Daily presidential activities are now broadcast across multiple platforms, including television and social media, reaching hundreds of thousands of users.

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According to the minister, the government received 1,928 public complaints through its “Sema na Rais” (Talk to President) platform, with 63.6 per cent already resolved, demonstrating improved responsiveness and accountability.

Training programmes have also been conducted in 44 local administrative areas (shehia), benefiting more than 2,500 citizens on how to effectively use the platform to raise concerns.

In the area of records and archives management, authorities have taken steps to preserve national history and improve efficiency in public institutions.

A total of 98 historical documents, including newspapers and books, have been digitised, while 365 files were restored for long-term preservation.

The government also inspected 12 ministries to streamline document management, reducing unnecessary records and improving access to critical information.

Dr Nkuya said researchers and members of the public have benefited from improved archival services, with both local and international scholars accessing historical data for academic and development purposes.

She said the progress achieved reflects the government’s commitment to transparency, efficiency and inclusive development.

“The government will continue strengthening its participation in regional and international platforms while enhancing citizen engagement and preserving national heritage,” she said.