ZANZIBAR, Dec 8 (NNN-DAILYNEWS) — PRESIDENT Hussein Mwinyi has said that Zanzibar has many untapped areas with substantial investment opportunities for both local and foreign investors.
He made the remarks at the State House in Zanzibar’s Stone Town during a meeting with the newly appointed British High Commissioner to Tanzania, Marianne Young, who paid a courtesy call to introduce herself to the Isles’ leadership.
Dr Mwinyi emphasised the importance of attracting more investment to make Zanzibar a major hub for modern investment and year-round tourism, free from seasonal restrictions.
He specifically pointed to sectors such as the Blue Economy, including tourism, ports, oil and gas, maritime transportation and heritage tourism, with attractions like Stone Town and Zanzibar’s beaches.
With ongoing infrastructure improvements, Dr Mwinyi stressed the need to promote “modern tourism,” such as hosting international conferences, sporting events and potentially car racing events like Formula One.
He added that Zanzibar is focused on high-end tourism that will attract visitors year-round and diversify attractions to appeal to a wider audience.
To support the growing tourism sector, the government has been improving infrastructure, including upgrading roads, communications and airports in both Unguja and Pemba to meet international standards.
Dr Mwinyi also shared plans for an integrated port in Mangapwani, Unguja North, emphasising the need for a large port to facilitate trade, goods distribution and economic growth.
He further discussed strategies for developing oil, gas and renewable energy and improving maritime transport, seeking British support for Zanzibar’s goal of achieving reliable and renewable energy.
On seaweed farming, the President informed the High Commissioner of plans to begin processing seaweed in Zanzibar, as exporting it raw offers limited economic returns.
He invited British investors to establish processing plants to add value, increase profitability and benefit seaweed farmers.
Dr Mwinyi thanked the UK for its support in sectors such as education, health and social development.
In response, High Commissioner Young reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting Zanzibar’s development, particularly in health, education and the Blue Economy.
She also praised Zanzibar’s progress in infrastructure and communications, noting that it reflects the Isles’ strategic vision to diversify its economy and strengthen its position as a global tourist and investment destination. — NNN-DAILYNEWS
