Zanzibar reflects on progress, vows stronger 2024, as Mwinyi urges unity

President Hussein Mwinyi has called for continued cohesion and renewed efforts to propel the islands forward in the new year, reflecting on a year marked by peace, unity, and development strides.

Mwinyi, in his customary end-of-year address to the nation on Sunday, December 31, 2023, lauded the Revolutionary Government's achievements in key areas, including infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic empowerment.

"Government leaders, political actors, and civil society have joined hands with the people to translate our development plans into tangible results," he declared, attributing the success to collaborative spirit.

This collaboration, Mwinyi said, has attracted vital support from international partners, bolstering the islands' growth trajectory.

But looking ahead, the President emphasized the need for unwavering unity and hard work. "Without peace and cohesion, our progress will falter," he cautioned. He urged citizens to combat societal ills like corruption, environmental degradation, and drug abuse with renewed vigor, seeking cooperation with law enforcement agencies.

Mwinyi highlighted the year's accomplishments, showcasing a range of completed projects which include 62 new schools built and equipped across various levels, 10 new district hospitals commissioned, along with the Lumumba regional hospital, all boasting modern facilities.

Entrepreneurship centers established in each district, offering loans and resources to aspiring business owners, support for small-scale fishers and seaweed farmers through loan and equipment provision, and103.5km of main roads constructed, along with 275km of internal roads and 100km of urban roads in Zanzibar City.

There was also the expansion of Abeid Amani Karume International Airport with a new passenger terminal, attracting more airlines and boosting revenue from Sh6.11 billion in 2019/2020 to Sh29.3 billion in 2022/23 and initiation of Pemba Airport construction, promising improved connectivity for the island.

Expressing gratitude to all stakeholders, Mwinyi urged continued collaboration in 2024 and beyond. "Let us work together to build a brighter future for Zanzibar, where economic prosperity thrives alongside strong social services and the well-being of every citizen," he concluded.