By The Respondents Reporter
President Hussein Ali Mwinyi has held talks with the Acting United States Ambassador to Tanzania, Andrew Lentz, focusing on strengthening cooperation and expanding investment opportunities in Zanzibar.
The meeting took place on March 23, 2026, at the State House in Zanzibar, where the two leaders discussed areas of partnership aimed at supporting economic development and attracting more investment to the islands.
During the talks, President Mwinyi said the ongoing construction of the Mangapwani Integrated Port Project is expected to address several logistical challenges while accelerating Zanzibar’s economic growth.
He explained that the project forms part of wider efforts to modernise infrastructure and support the increasing level of investment taking place in Zanzibar.
The President noted that the project will include a 200-megawatt power generation facility, fuel storage tanks and a modern port capable of handling larger vessels.
Once completed, the facility is expected to ease congestion currently experienced at the Malindi Port, which has long served as the main maritime gateway for the islands.
He said improved infrastructure will help create a more favourable environment for business and trade while also supporting the government’s vision of positioning Zanzibar as a key transport and investment hub in the region.
President Mwinyi also reaffirmed Zanzibar’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with the United States and expressed appreciation for the country’s continued support to Tanzania, including Zanzibar, in various development initiatives.
He added that Zanzibar still offers significant opportunities for foreign investors and encouraged companies from the United States to explore investment prospects in sectors such as trade, tourism, energy and infrastructure.
For his part, Ambassador Lentz praised the development progress being made in Zanzibar, particularly in infrastructure projects, noting that such investments play an important role in attracting investors, expanding economic activities and improving the welfare of citizens.
He also reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to continue working closely with Zanzibar in areas such as health, climate change, trade and investment as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation and support sustainable development.
