Zanzibar President Dr Hussein Mwinyi has expressed interest in strengthening cooperation with Russia and its private sector in various areas, including energy, ports and transport, tourism, education and research, health, fisheries, and the Blue Economy. This was during a meeting with a Russian delegation led by Denis Agafonov, Head of the Directorate of Experts in the Office of the President of the Russian Federation. The meeting also included Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation James Millya.
Dr Mwinyi highlighted significant opportunities for cooperation with Russia in the energy sector, particularly in electricity generation and access, renewable energy, and nuclear energy technology. Preliminary scientific studies have indicated possible oil and natural gas resources in Zanzibar, particularly offshore. The government is ready to work with Russian companies possessing the required expertise and technology for exploration, assessment, and development of these resources.
Zanzibar's strategic location offers opportunities to expand trade and transport links across East and Central Africa. The construction of the Mangapwani Integrated Port is progressing, and Zanzibar is ready to cooperate with Russia in port construction, technology, and operational expertise. This cooperation aims to strengthen the Isles' capacity to serve as a regional trade gateway.
In the tourism sector, President Mwinyi expressed a desire to increase the number of Russian tourists visiting Zanzibar, particularly with direct air links between Zanzibar and Moscow strengthening. He also invited greater Russian investment in tourism projects, aiming to add value to the sector, expand business opportunities, and create jobs for Zanzibaris.
Dr Mwinyi emphasized the importance of cooperation in education and research, seeking to develop long-term ties with Russia by expanding scholarship opportunities for Tanzanian students, promoting joint research, and establishing vocational training and research centers. Cooperation could also extend to marine science and technology, supporting the implementation of Zanzibar's Blue Economy policies and development programs.
Zanzibar is also interested in cooperating with Russia in the fisheries sector through technology, expertise, and investment aimed at increasing production and adding value to marine products. In the health sector, the Isles are interested in expanding the use of telemedicine to connect patients at health facilities with specialists at referral hospitals and other medical centers.
President Mwinyi thanked the Russian delegation for visiting Zanzibar and demonstrating its commitment to strengthening cooperation between Tanzania and the Russian Federation. He stressed the importance of translating discussed areas into concrete projects capable of delivering tangible benefits to the people.
Key points
- Zanzibar seeks Russian cooperation in energy, ports, and tourism sectors.
- The Isles aim to increase Russian tourist arrivals and investment in tourism projects.
- Zanzibar and Russia discuss cooperation in education, fisheries, and healthcare.
