Zanzibar has recently witnessed remarkable public enthusiasm for rallies led by Othman Masoud. From the streets of Unguja town to remote Pemba villages, thousands of citizens have gathered in large numbers to hear his message, reflecting growing expectations for new leadership and change.
In Unguja, residents have resonated with his remarks on everyday challenges, particularly unemployment and rising living costs.
In rural Pemba, farmers and fishermen have warmly welcomed him, showing confidence in a leader who listens and understands local struggles.
Masoud’s engagements have gone beyond rhetoric, offering practical solutions and hope that systemic change is achievable.
He has highlighted how targeted investment in agriculture and fisheries could transform livelihoods. By opening markets for cloves and other crops, farmers can sell produce at fair prices instead of relying on middlemen.
Modernized fishing operations would similarly enable fishermen to increase output and earn higher profits.
For many, Othman Masoud represents a leader of transformation. Citizens see him as a bold figure ready to dismantle systems that benefit only a few while leaving the majority in poverty.
His transparency, accessibility, and pragmatic promises have strengthened his image as a leader relevant to the current times.
Masoud has pledged reforms in education to equip Zanzibar’s youth with skills aligned with local realities, including agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and technology.
This approach aims to empower young people to generate their own income and manage small enterprises instead of relying on insecure jobs.
His proposal to set a minimum monthly wage of one million Tanzanian shillings has also attracted wide support from government and private-sector employees, long frustrated by salaries that lag behind the cost of living.
On public service, Masoud promises to restore respect for teachers and civil servants, ensuring their contribution to nation-building is recognized.
In health, he has criticized the current Zanzibar health insurance system as corrupt and exploitative, pledging improvements to guarantee affordable and quality care for all residents.
Masoud has committed to curbing reckless investments that exploit citizens’ land and ensuring projects prioritize local interests.
Small-scale industries producing local goods, he argues, could create jobs, reduce poverty, and improve access to essential products.
He envisions an internationally engaged Zanzibar, leveraging local resources to strengthen economic, diplomatic, and social partnerships.
His plan is to secure a strategic role for Zanzibar in trade, tourism, and education.
In oil and gas, Masoud has pledged that resources will remain Zanzibar’s property and benefit all families, not a select few.
Investment in modern agriculture and fisheries will ensure every participant gains tangible profits from their labor.
Ali Abdalla Said from Wete, Pemba, said, “For the first time, we see a leader who can help farmers sell their crops at fair prices. Despite producing essential goods, we have never truly benefited from their real value.”
Fatma Ngwali from Makunduchi said, “Othman is the leader Zanzibar has long awaited. His arrival gives all citizens from Unguja to Pemba reason to support him and trust his vision.”
Juma Haji, a teacher in Unguja, commented, “Othman understands teachers’ challenges. His promises about salaries and respect give us hope.”
Fatma Suleiman, a resident of Unguja town, added, “It is inspiring to see a leader ensure Zanzibar’s resources benefit everyone, not just a few. We now have confidence that our lives can change.”