Zanzibar wants cooperation with Zimbabwe to go beyond the diplomatic level
ZANZIBAR: PRESIDENT of Zanzibar, Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, has underscored the importance of strengthening economic diplomacy between Tanzania and Zimbabwe, noting that the longstanding political ties between the two nations should now pave the way for greater economic cooperation.
Speaking at the State House in Zanzibar during a courtesy visit by Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Tanzania, Hellen Bawange Dingani, President Mwinyi said the time is ripe to shift the focus from political solidarity to economic partnerships that can bring tangible benefits to both countries.
He said Tanzania and Zimbabwe share a deep-rooted history of political cooperation, dating back to the liberation struggles of the nations. We must now build on that legacy by advancing economic diplomacy
Dr. Mwinyi pointed out that Zanzibar offers a wide range of investment and trade opportunities that could be of great interest to Zimbabwe, particularly in key sectors such as tourism, commerce, and foreign direct investment.
He proposed the organization of a joint business forum that would bring together Tanzanian and Zimbabwean business communities to explore areas of mutual interest, forge partnerships, and unlock new markets.
ALSO READ: AfDB’S 12.33TRI/- SUPPORT: How TZ reaps big
Dr. Mwinyi also highlighted the potential for growth in the tourism sector, saying that while Zimbabwean visitors are already coming to Zanzibar, there is still room to expand this exchange through targeted collaboration and joint tourism promotion.
Ambassador Dingani, in her remarks, reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to enhancing ties with Tanzania and expressed gratitude for Tanzania’s historic role in supporting Zimbabwe’s liberation and broader efforts for African independence.
She also emphasized the importance of maintaining strong ties between the two countries’ ruling parties, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) and ZANU-PF, especially in the face of increasing political pressure on liberation movements across Africa.
