ZANZIBAR government has stated that a total of 3,577 residents have received compensation for damages to their homes caused by seismic activities related to oil and natural gas exploration.

This was said here yesterday by Minister for Blue Economy and Fisheries Shabani Ali Othman when addressing reporters on various achievements as the government approaches four years under President Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi’s leadership.  

He noted that the number of compensated citizens corresponds to 83 households affected by the seismic activities.

The minister reported that the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Authority is currently working to complete payments for the remaining 17 percent of citizens who have not yet received compensation, with a focus on the financial year 2024/2025.

In addition to compensation efforts, Othman highlighted the ministry’s major achievements, including establishment of a modern market and fish landing site in Malindi, which now serves over 10,000 people. 

The facility aims to enhance local fishing operations and improve livelihoods of those in the fishing community.

Furthermore, the ministry has successfully built a seaweed processing plant at Chamanangwe, Pemba, with a robust capacity for processing dried seaweed to bolster local economy and provide job opportunities in the area.

“Over the past four years, the ministry has also constructed a fish feed production facility at Kama area, capable of producing five tonnes of feed daily. The facility will support local aquaculture efforts, promoting sustainable fishing practices,” he said.

The minister further emphasized that among the key achievements of the past four years are important amendments to the oil and gas laws, aimed at attracting more investors to Zanzibar. 

The legislative changes are designed to create a more conducive environment for investment in the sector, which is vital for the region's economic development.

In a major outreach effort, the ministry has distributed 1,927 boats across Unguja and Pemba, with 70 percent benefiting young people and 90 percent of the seaweed farming boats allocated to women. 

“This aims at empowering local communities and encouraging sustainable fishing and farming practices,” he said.

Revenue generated from fishing and conservation fees has seen remarkable growth, increasing from 1.65bn/- in 2021 to 6bn/- in 2023. The rise in revenue reflects the ministry’s commitment to enhancing the fisheries sector and promoting sustainable practices.

The Minister called on the society to collaborate with the ministry to ensure that all villages have access to opportunities. 

He urged local leaders and the public to actively participate in ongoing initiatives and support the ministry’s efforts to foster economic growth and sustainable development in Zanzibar.