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| Zanzibar President Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi presents a certificate of recognition to Edgar Mujuni Nyamwihura for his outstanding contribution to the landmark preparation of Zanzibar's inaugural Geological Report. Photo: Courtesy. |
By Adonis Byemelwa
Zanzibar President and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, has officially launched the Geological and Mineral Research Report for Zanzibar. The research was a collaborative effort between experts from Tanzania’s Geological Survey of Tanzania (GST) and the Ministry of Water, Energy, and Minerals in Zanzibar (WMNMZ).
The report was unveiled today, September 12, 2024, at the Golden Tulip Hotel in Zanzibar, where President Mwinyi expressed his gratitude to the team of experts for their thorough work in identifying mineral types and their locations across the islands.
President Mwinyi emphasized that the geological report would serve a wide range of sectors, including mining, energy, water, construction, agriculture, education, health, and tourism. These sectors are vital for Zanzibar’s social welfare and economic growth.
He also urged the Ministry of Water, Energy, and Minerals to distribute the report to all relevant institutions, ensuring that its findings are utilized for the benefit of the nation and to enhance the island's economy.
Besides, President Mwinyi called on the Ministry of Minerals, through GST, to maintain their collaboration in the mining sector and to continue conducting extensive research to discover new areas with mineral potential, tourism opportunities, and regions prone to natural disasters.
In a symbolic gesture, President Mwinyi awarded certificates to the experts who participated in the research and preparation of the report as recognition for their contributions.
Minister of Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, stated that the research conducted in Zanzibar would strengthen the island's economy and improve the lives of Tanzanians living there. According to Mavunde, the research findings are expected to attract substantial investment and fuel national economic growth.
On his part, Zanzibar's Minister of Water, Energy, and Minerals, Shaibu Kaduara, explained that this was an initial survey and that further in-depth studies would be required to determine the exact quantity and quality of the minerals identified.
Earlier, the Director of the Department of Energy and Minerals, Engineer Said Mdungi, presented the technical findings on behalf of the research team. He outlined the geological composition of Zanzibar, detailing the types of rocks, soil, and indicators of water-bearing formations.
Regarding minerals, he highlighted the discovery of heavy mineral sands, such as ilmenite, titanium, zircon, and magnetite, as well as construction materials, limestone, and silica. Additionally, the report identified various geological attractions and areas at risk of natural disasters due to geological hazards.
With this report in hand, Zanzibar looks to tap into new investment opportunities while safeguarding its natural resources, positioning itself as a key player in the region's economic development.