THE Union and Zanzibar authorities have jointly appealed for prompt take up of projects already applied for and obtaining licences.

Zanzibar President Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, accompanied by Union President Samia Suluhu Hassan, setting a three-month preliminary observation schedule for already licenced to begin implementing their projects in 15 small islands.

He issued this appeal at the launch of the Cocoon Collection hotel on Bawe islet in the Zanzibar Urban West Region, underlining that the projects need to be implemented within the specified period as otherwise there is a risk of the licence.

President Samia noted that the projects need to start without delay, as they are vital to Zanzibar economic expectations.

Completing those initiatives would transform Zanzibar, enhancing the productive use of idle islands and positively impacting the surrounding communities, she stated.

The launched hotel is a $40m project, expected to employ over 400 local residents and enhance the scenic beauty of its shoreline. Bawe islet where the hotel is located, is among 15 small islands leased by the Zanzibar government for investment outlays.

The Union leader commended the Zanzibar authorities for implementing the ruling party manifesto, pointing at highlighting various projects outlined in the 2020 plan, including port construction at Mangapwani and Kizimkazi, now in progress.

 “Zanzibar has undergone significant changes, with construction projects emerging across the island, showing positive development,” she stated, while the Zanzibar leader stressed that the government was keen on progress in the projects being observed rapidly.

Licenses would be revoked from those failing to follow through, he cautioned, pointing out that this kind of investment not only creates jobs but also opens markets for agricultural products.

Such markets enhance the economic status of hardworking farmers, he said, urging those entrusted with the projects to make sure that they deliver.

The leasing of small islands in Unguja and Pemba is meant to boost the tourism sector and productively utilize them as assets, he said, hinting that some of them were earlier being used as contact points for illicit activities, including drug trafficking.

To date, 16 small islands have been leased for investment, with the Bawe island hotel being the first to be launched, he said, affirming that investors received support from the surrounding communities, particularly fishermen, as they brought medical services nearer.

In 2022, the Zanzibar government announced plans to market its islets to prospective investors, as Zanzibar boasts over 50 islets. Some of them have already secured investments, while a range of others are still idle, he added.