Communication and ICT officers from the Ministry of Finance and Planning, Zanzibar, have concluded a seven-day study tour aimed at strengthening government communication systems and improving the use of technology in public information delivery, with a final visit to the farm of the former Prime Minister of the United Republic of Tanzania, Mizengo Kayanza Peter Pinda, in Dodoma Region.
The tour, jointly facilitated by the Ministry of Finance of the United Republic of Tanzania and the Ministry of Finance and Planning Zanzibar, focused on enhancing institutional collaboration, professional exchange, and improving the efficiency of government communication in sharing information on finance and economic development with the public.
Throughout the programme, the officers were exposed to modern communication practices within government institutions, with particular emphasis on the use of ICT in improving speed, accuracy, and accessibility of information to citizens.
They also explored ways of strengthening coordination between departments to ensure consistent and reliable public messaging.
The delegation was led by the Acting Head of the Information and Public Relations Unit at the Ministry of Finance and Planning Zanzibar, B. Zuhura Mwalim, and included Assistant Public Relations Officer Mr. Abubakar Haji, ICT Officer Ms. Sahiya Kombo, and Public Relations Officer Ms. Hamida Suleiman.
At the farm of Mizengo Kayanza Peter Pinda, the officers received practical lessons on modern agricultural practices, including the application of technology in farming, efficient production methods, and the importance of investing in agriculture as a key driver of economic transformation.
They learned that agriculture continues to play a central role in Tanzania’s economy by creating employment opportunities, especially for youth and women, while also contributing to household incomes and national economic growth through agricultural value chains.
The officers were further informed that the adoption of modern farming techniques helps improve productivity and reduce post-harvest losses, thereby increasing overall efficiency in the sector.
Speaking during the visit, the participants said they were impressed by the farm’s contribution to local development, noting that it provides both direct and indirect employment opportunities to surrounding communities in Dodoma.
They added that the experience gained would strengthen their ability to communicate government policies and economic initiatives more effectively, particularly by linking public information with real productive sectors such as agriculture.
Officials from the Government Communications Unit of the Ministry of Finance of the United Republic of Tanzania also accompanied the delegation, providing further insights into coordinated government communication systems designed to enhance transparency, accountability, and public engagement.
The tour concluded with participants reaffirming their commitment to deepening cooperation between the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar and the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania in improving public communication systems and promoting greater awareness of national economic and development priorities.
