Zanzibar Marks 62 Years of Revolution with Major Development Achievements

Unguja – Zanzibar celebrates 62 years since the Revolution, showcasing remarkable economic and social transformations across multiple sectors that reflect the islands’ continued progress and growing stature.

During this year’s celebrations, 107 projects were either inaugurated or had their foundations laid across Unguja and Pemba. These developments span education, health, road infrastructure, markets, commercial and residential buildings, and workers’ housing.

Senior national leaders, both current and retired, and ministers from the Governments of the United Republic of Tanzania and Zanzibar attended the events, emphasizing that these initiatives reflect the Revolution’s core goals of promoting equality, justice, and improving citizens’ lives.

The activities, held between December 22, 2025, and January 11, 2026, also included discussions on how the Revolution was achieved.

At the launch of a school project in Kizimkazi, South Unguja Region, Vice President Ambassador Dr. Emanuel Nchimbi highlighted the importance of unity and solidarity in sustaining the Revolution’s gains.

"My advice to everyone, young and old, is to strengthen our unity, support the government and continue achieving as the Revolution envisioned," he said. "Failing to maintain peace and advance these gains would mean dishonoring the Revolution."

Dr. Nchimbi recalled that before the Revolution, educational opportunities were severely limited, with just 68 schools serving 25,000 students under discriminatory conditions.

"Now, after 62 years, there are 1,200 schools and over 600,000 students. Zanzibar also hosts five universities," he said, noting the introduction of practical and innovative teaching methods.

Investment and Economic Growth

Minister of Labour and Investment Shariff Ali Shariff announced that more than 558 projects, valued at $6.9 billion (Sh16.96 trillion), are expected to generate 25,000 jobs.

The government has implemented strategies to attract domestic and foreign investors, foster a business-friendly environment, and position tourism as a major regional draw.

Tourism grew 14 percent, from 568,312 visitors in November 2023 to over 750,000, while Zanzibar’s economy expanded by 7.5 percent in 2024, up from 5.1 percent in 2021.

Fisheries and Infrastructure Development

In the fisheries sector, Permanent Secretary Hamad Bakar Hamad reported that production rose 107.2 percent, from 38,107 tonnes in 2020 to 78,943 tonnes in 2024.

Ports and maritime infrastructure, including Mangapwani, Mkoani, and Shumba, have been upgraded to strengthen the sector.

Social affairs analyst Khamis Ameir Ali noted that the visible changes result from sustained efforts to improve public services across the islands.