COOPERATION is being fostered between the Union and Zanzibar governments in economic and social development, including close monitoring of immigration activity, the government has stated.

Deputy Prime Minister Dr Doto Biteko made the remarks over the weekend when laying foundation stone for an Immigration Department building at Micheweni in Pemba, as part of events to mark 61 years of the Zanzibar Revolution, reaching its peak yesterday.

He said Zanzibaris and those on the Mainland have every reason to be proud of the tremendous progress achieved over the six decades of the revolution.

Remarkable strides in delivering economic, political and social development have been made, owing to the visionary leadership of the founding fathers, Sheikh Abeid Amani Karume and Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, he said.

The construction of offices and accommodation for Immigration staff is clear demonstration of the commitment to improve working conditions, ensuring that officers are equipped to fulfil their duties effectively, he stated.

Salama Khatib, the Pemba North regional commissioner, praised President Samia Suluhu Hassan for successful implementation of large-scale development projects.

 Zanzibaris steadily take pride in the benefits of the revolution, thus it is crucial for the public to stay informed and united in order to protect the security of the nation, the RC underlined.

Hamza Hassan Juma, the Policy, Coordination and House of Representatives state minister in the Second Vice-President’s Office, said that ongoing development projects in Micheweni District have helped lift many residents out of poverty.

Improvements to the road and water infrastructure will create new employment opportunities contributing to economic growth, he said, urging the Immigration Department to think of residential plot for its staff as different from office spaces. This would enhance their privacy, he said.

Dr Anna Makakala, the Immigration Services commissioner-general, expressed satisfaction with major improvements in department’s welfare and working conditions over the past few years.

Innocent Bashungwa, the Home Affairs minister, assured that the government is working to improve working conditions in the department. Officers need to be better equipped “to provide exceptional services to the public,” he added.