Residents of Uzi Kiswani village in South Unguja have called on the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar (SMZ) to ban sand mining along the island’s beaches, warning that the activity threatens their homes, livelihoods and the island’s environmental future.
The residents made the appeal during a visit by ACT Wazalendo’s representative in the House of Representatives, Prof. Omar Fakih Hamad, who met them to hear their concerns and identify challenges requiring government intervention.
Speaking on behalf of the residents, Omar Suleiman said sand mining along the coastline had heightened fears that seawater could increasingly reach homes, putting families and property at risk.
“We are genuinely worried about losing our island because seawater is increasingly reaching our homes as a result of sand mining along the beaches,” Omar said.
The residents alleged that some people continued extracting sand with the backing of certain government leaders, including individuals associated with Shehia committees. They called for the allegations to be investigated and for appropriate action to be taken against anyone found responsible.
Omar said the problem extended beyond Uzi, noting that communities on some neighbouring islands were also facing restrictions affecting their economic activities.
Mahadhi Abdulkheiry urged the government to act swiftly, warning that continued sand mining could worsen environmental damage and threaten the long-term safety of the island.
“Wherever you go, along the beaches or near our homes, you find different kinds of pits that pose dangers to our children and even older people,” Mahadhi said.
Marhumi Hemed Suleiman echoed the concerns, urging authorities to intervene before the damage became more severe and more difficult to reverse.
The residents said protecting the coastline was essential to safeguarding homes, preserving the island’s natural resources and securing the future of the community.
Beyond sand mining, residents called for stronger enforcement against fishing methods that damage marine ecosystems, particularly those that destroy coral reefs and capture young fish before they mature.
Mselemu Ali Fumu said destructive fishing practices threatened marine life and undermined the natural resources on which many islanders depend for their livelihoods.
He stressed that protecting marine ecosystems was important for sustaining fishing activities and ensuring that future generations could also benefit from the sea.
Residents also raised concerns about employment opportunities, alleging that some young people born and raised on Uzi Island were struggling to access government jobs because of their local origins.
Shamuni Husein Abdallah said the situation had left many young people feeling excluded from opportunities they believed should be available to all qualified Tanzanians.
“Today, outsiders seem to be recognised and valued more than those of us born here. It is very painful,” Shamuni said.
The residents urged the relevant authorities to ensure fairness and equal opportunities in recruitment, allowing qualified local youth to compete for available positions without discrimination.
Residents also appealed for stronger action against crop theft and destruction, reporting incidents involving coconut trees, pineapples and cassava.
Marhumi Hemed Suleiman alleged that some offenders damaged crops and used them to feed their livestock, leaving farmers at risk of losing the fruits of their labour.
He urged the government and relevant authorities to strengthen measures to protect farmers’ property and enable them to carry out agricultural activities without fear of theft or destruction.
On tourism, residents called for the development of a sector that creates economic opportunities while respecting Zanzibar’s laws, customs and cultural values.
They expressed concern about behaviour by some visitors that they considered inconsistent with local community standards, including public nudity and the public promotion of alcohol.
The residents said tourism should bring economic benefits to local communities while respecting the cultural identity and values of the people of Zanzibar.
Is-haka Husein Abdallah, a volunteer involved in environmental conservation on Uzi Island, warned that the destruction of mangroves, indigenous trees and beaches could undermine tourism and negatively affect residents’ incomes.
He said the island’s natural beauty was among its most valuable assets, helping attract visitors and create opportunities for local businesses and communities.
“Our environment gives us an opportunity, through tourism, to build friendships with people from different countries,” Is-haka said.
He explained that residents had been making efforts to preserve indigenous trees and protect the environment, adding that continued destruction of natural resources could weaken Uzi’s appeal as a tourism destination.
He called for collective efforts to conserve the coastline, mangrove forests and indigenous vegetation, stressing that environmental protection was directly linked to the island’s economic future.
For residents, preserving the environment means more than protecting nature; it also means safeguarding livelihoods, supporting tourism and ensuring that future generations inherit a healthy and attractive island.
Seaweed farmers also called on their representatives to raise their concerns in the House of Representatives, particularly the need for better prices that reflect production costs and the effort required to grow and harvest seaweed.
Subira Abdul Bari appealed to the government to provide modern equipment that would allow farmers to cultivate seaweed in deeper waters and improve the quality and quantity of their production.
“We should be provided with boats that can reach deeper waters,” Subira said.
The farmers said improved equipment and fairer prices could strengthen their businesses, increase household incomes and expand economic opportunities for families who depend on seaweed farming.
They urged the government to consider practical measures that would help them improve productivity and earn better returns from their work.
Speaking during the visit, Ole Constituency Representative Seif Hamad Suleiman promised to present the residents’ concerns to the House of Representatives for further consideration and action by the relevant authorities.
Concluding the visit, Prof. Omar Fakih Hamad called on the government to give greater attention to the challenges facing Uzi Island, highlighting its importance in environmental conservation and tourism development.
He also urged residents to work together to protect the island’s natural resources, warning that environmental destruction by some members of the community could have consequences for the entire population.
“Those involved in sand mining and the cutting of indigenous trees also come from Uzi itself. I sincerely urge you to work together to protect your heritage, which is important to the nation,” Prof. Omar said.
He stressed that local residents would bear the immediate consequences of environmental degradation, making community participation essential in protecting beaches, mangroves, indigenous trees and other natural resources.
The concerns raised during the visit highlight the close connection between environmental protection and everyday life on Uzi Island, from the safety of homes and the future of fishing to farming, employment and tourism.
Uzi is among Zanzibar’s smaller islands that retain much of their natural character, distinctive landscapes and rich environmental heritage. Residents say decisive action by the government, supported by the community, is needed to protect these resources, strengthen local livelihoods and ensure that the island remains a safe and valuable home for generations to come.