(Unguja) – Zanzibar’s President, Dr. Hussein Mwinyi, has pledged to create better conditions for major investors in the blue economy sector to support small-scale sea cucumber farmers, aiming to enhance production and improve livelihoods.
Dr. Mwinyi emphasized that the government prioritizes three key areas within the blue economy: fishing, seaweed farming, and marine aquaculture, including sea cucumbers, fish, crabs, and prawns. Speaking on January 10, 2025, during the launch of the Visiwani Sea Cucumber Farm project in Ukunjwi, North Pemba, he stated that large investors would be encouraged to assist small-scale farmers by providing tools, fingerlings, and a guaranteed market for their produce.
The President also expressed optimism that if private sector investors continue expanding sea cucumber farming, Zanzibar could become a leading global producer.
During the event, the chairman of the Visiwani Sea Cucumber Farm project, Toufiq Salim Turky, announced plans to establish a processing plant for sea cucumbers in Pemba. He outlined the project’s goal of enabling more citizens to engage in sea cucumber farming, with the aim of producing 100 tons of the product annually.
In addition to the focus on aquaculture, Dr. Mwinyi inaugurated a new primary school in Kojani, North Pemba. He urged parents and teachers to ensure students take full advantage of the improved educational facilities. The school, built at a cost of TZS 5.382 billion, includes 32 classrooms, laboratories, a computer room, a library, and an exam hall, with a capacity for 1,305 students in a single stream.
Dr. Mwinyi reminded parents and teachers that the government’s investment in education must be matched with commitment from students to excel in their studies.
Addressing employment issues, the President directed the Ministries of Health, Education, and Public Service to prioritize local youth for job openings in Kojani. He also instructed the Ministry of Health to allocate one of the five newly procured medical boats to Kojani, ensuring improved healthcare services for the island’s residents.
On sports, Dr. Mwinyi announced plans to construct a modern stadium in Kojani, promising significant support for local recreational activities. Additionally, he assured citizens of plans to establish a district hospital to improve healthcare access.
The President acknowledged the ongoing problem of seawater encroaching into residential areas and pledged to engage experts to find a lasting solution.
Key Highlights of the Speech
| Initiative | Details |
|---|---|
| Blue Economy Priorities | Fishing, seaweed farming, and marine aquaculture (fish, crabs, prawns, sea cucumbers) |
| New Farm Project | Visiwani Sea Cucumber Farm to expand production and build a processing plant |
| New School | TZS 5.382 billion school with modern facilities for 1,305 students |
| Healthcare Investments | Medical boat allocation and plans for a district hospital in Kojani |
| Youth Employment | Priority hiring for Kojani youth in local government sectors |
| Recreational Facilities | Commitment to build a modern stadium for sports |
| Seawater Encroachment Issue | Government to consult experts for mitigation |
