Mwinyi vows to ‘walk the talk’ on projects implementation

ZANZIBAR : ZANZIBAR President Dr Hussein Mwinyi has reaffirmed his commitment to delivering on the promises he made to the people, emphasising that he remains undeterred by criticism from certain quarters.

His priority, he stated, is addressing citizens’ challenges and advancing key development projects already in progress.

Speaking at the opening of the newly constructed Mwanakwerekwe Market Complex in Unguja West B District, Dr Mwinyi declared that the time for politicking has passed.

He said, “Development has no political party. The new roads, schools and markets benefit everyone, not just members of Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM).”

Dr Mwinyi remarked, “The people want development, and we are committed to implementing programmes aimed at uplifting their livelihoods. This modern international market provides ample space for many petty traders, including women street food vendors, known as Mama Ntilie.”

He announced plans to open similar modern marketplaces in Jumbi, Chuini and Mombasa areas in Unguja. Dr Mwinyi said that these new markets must be maintained properly, instructing traders not to sell goods on the streets or in unauthorised areas. The new facilities are equipped with CCTV cameras for security and designated parking areas.

The president directed city and municipal authorities to ensure there are no petty businesses along the streets, maintain sanitation and set reasonable rent fees for traders in the new market.

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He also informed the audience about a loan allocation of 96bn/- available for entrepreneurs, encouraging those in need of financial support to apply.

Dr Mwinyi expressed enthusiasm when the Regional Commissioner for Dar es Salaam, Albert Chalamila, pledged to establish business ties between Mwanakwerekwe and Kariakoo in Dar es Salaam, potentially attracting traders from neighbouring countries like Comoros, Uganda and the DRC.

He is determined to maintain momentum in implementing development projects before his first term ends next year, stating, “In fact, there are around 170 significant projects to be launched within the next year, including those celebrated during the 61st anniversary of the Zanzibar Revolution.”

Among the upcoming projects are a flyover at Mwanakwerekwe, bridges at Uzi-Ngambwa and Charawe-Chwaka, the reconstruction of Terminal II at Amani Abeid Karume International Airport (AAKIA) and a new airport in Pemba to accommodate larger aircraft.

Dr Mwinyi noted that Zanzibar is nearing sufficient school buildings to enable single-shift schooling starting January next year.

The event was attended by the First Lady of the Isles, the Speaker of the Zanzibar House of Representatives, Zubeir Ali Maulid and the Second Vice-President, Hemed Suleiman Abdulla. It was part of the activities marking four years of Dr Mwinyi’s presidency, which began on November 2, 2020.

According to Principal Secretary of the Ministry of State for Regional Administration, Local Government and Special Departments, Mr Issa Mahfoudh Haji over 35.8bn/- was invested in the Mwanakwerekwe Market, which can accommodate 5,000 small traders.

The complex, built by the JKU (Jeshi la Kujenga Uchumi) Building Brigade, includes a breastfeeding room and is designed to be accessible for people with disabilities.

The Second Vice President, Hemed Suleiman and the Regional Commissioner for Unguja Urban-West, Idrissa Kitwana Mustafa, praised Dr Mwinyi for his commitment to developing Zanzibar and improving the lives of its people.