Zanzibar President and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, has said his recent visit to the United Kingdom has brought major benefits to Zanzibar, with several investors expressing strong interest in investing in the Isles.
Speaking to journalists at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport upon his return from the UK, President Mwinyi described the visit as highly productive.
He had attended the Commonwealth Trade and Investment Forum, which focused on advancing the Blue Economy agenda.
“The visit was a great success. Many investors showed a genuine interest in Zanzibar’s potential, especially in key sectors such as tourism, the blue economy, and oil and gas exploration,” said President Mwinyi.
He noted that Zanzibar’s economy has been growing steadily, currently registering an annual growth rate of over 7 percent.
“Our economic trajectory is promising. The government is implementing sound policies, promoting available opportunities, and welcoming more international investors to accelerate this growth,” he added.
The President highlighted three priority sectors that are attracting investor attention: tourism, the blue economy, and oil and gas.
He said these sectors remain at the heart of the government’s development strategy and confirmed that the administration is committed to offering full cooperation to prospective investors.
In particular, he revealed that British investors are keen on enhancing the value chain of Zanzibar’s seaweed sector.
This includes investing in value addition, improved seed production, research, and capacity building for seaweed farmers.
“In the oil and gas sector, several companies have already signed agreements with the government to undertake data collection, which will be marketed globally to attract more investors,” he said.
President Mwinyi assured the international community that Zanzibar remains open for business, with abundant investment opportunities in various sectors.
Turning to the energy sector, he encouraged UK investors to explore renewable energy projects in Zanzibar, including wind, solar, and waste-to-energy initiatives, to help the islands achieve energy self-sufficiency.
“Our electricity demand is growing rapidly. Investment in this area is crucial to meet the increasing needs of our population and support sustainable development,” he emphasized.
On tourism, the President reaffirmed Zanzibar’s commitment to sustainable tourism policies. He urged investors to align with the government’s emphasis on environmental conservation and value-based tourism.
“Zanzibar is focused on attracting high-value tourists who contribute significantly to the economy, rather than just aiming for large numbers,” he explained.
Addressing the diaspora, President Mwinyi said the process to grant special status to Zanzibaris living abroad is progressing well. The proposal has already been submitted to Parliament for approval.
“This special status will allow them to enjoy key rights, including land ownership, access to travel insurance, and formal recognition of their families,” he noted.
