Residents of Central District are calling for urgent government action after losing farmland and small islands to investors, a move they say has left communities struggling with poverty, unemployment, and uncertainty about the future.
During a public meeting in Mgeni Haji Shehia, villagers, particularly elders, described how land they relied on for farming and daily livelihoods has been seized without compensation.
“Our lands were taken by the government and given to investors. We have nowhere to farm or live. Our children will inherit nothing,” an elder said.
Residents highlighted the historic Bambi area, once known for potato farming, which has been taken from local farmers.
They also said small islands that supported fishing and farming have been transferred to private investors, depriving long-standing residents of their rights.
Infrastructure projects, such as the construction of the Uzini road, have exacerbated the problem, with farmland cleared without compensation.
Soldiers from the Tanzania People’s Defence Forces were also accused of taking land that had been occupied by local families since 1978.
Farmers say the land loss has severely affected their livelihoods.
“We cannot grow food or earn income from farming. This has caused hunger, unemployment, and rising living costs. Young people have lost jobs, and elders who relied on their land to support families now have nothing,” said Juma Ali Hamza, a local farmer.
Responding to residents’ concerns, ACT Wazalendo presidential candidate Othman Masoud Othman said the land disputes reflect weak governance and a lack of accountability under the current administration.
“Citizens are promised support but face suppression in practice. A government must protect the rights of its people, not deny them,” Mr. Othman said.
He pledged that an ACT Wazalendo government would strengthen accountability systems and ensure that leaders who violate citizens’ rights face strict consequences.
He also cited the 1974 Land Act, which grants ownership to individuals who have cleared and cultivated land continuously for more than 12 years.
“Citizens’ rights are being ignored every day. This must end. Everyone deserves legal protection for their land,” he said.
Mr. Othman urged residents to support ACT Wazalendo in the upcoming elections, promising a government committed to justice, fairness, and the well-being of all Zanzibaris.