The President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, has underscored the critical role of the engineering and architectural sectors in advancing infrastructure, social wellbeing, and economic growth across East Africa.
Speaking on behalf of the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, during the opening of the East African Building Architects Seminar at Madinat Al Bahr Hotel in Mbweni, Dr Mwinyi said architecture is an essential tool to address the challenges posed by rapid urbanisation and to improve the identity and planning of cities.
He emphasised the importance of architectural practices that respect and preserve the cultural heritage of East Africa, noting that regional collaboration and professional exchange are vital to fully harness the sector’s potential.
Dr Mwinyi also highlighted ongoing efforts by the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar and the United Republic Government to integrate architecture into various development initiatives.
These include creating opportunities for graduates to become self-employed, utilising existing industry prospects, reviving professional skills through education, and allocating dedicated funding for innovative research.
“Tanzania’s attainment of middle-income status is in part due to large-scale strategic projects that have boosted national revenue,” Dr Mwinyi said, praising the country’s cadre of skilled local professionals, including senior consultants capable of delivering world-class architectural projects.
He assured the sector’s experts of the government’s commitment to fully involve domestic architects in major development projects, with a focus on capacity building and empowering local talent.
In recognition of his contributions, Dr Mwinyi was presented with the prestigious “Hero Builder” award.
He accepted the accolade on behalf of President Samia Suluhu Hassan and also handed out gifts to stakeholders and institutions that helped facilitate the seminar held in Zanzibar for the first time in 121 years.