THE Zanzibar government is focused on strengthening infrastructure, including the construction of urban and rural roads, to enhance the national economy.

Second Vice President of Zanzibar, Hemed Suleiman Abdulla, made the remarks during the ground breaking ceremony for   Mazizini, Chukwani, and Maungani roads, which stretch over 28.164 kilometers. This event was part of the 61st anniversary celebrations of the Zanzibar Revolution.

He emphasised that the government's goal is to ensure that all areas requiring road infrastructure are developed to tarmac standards, addressing transportation challenges for citizens in both urban and rural areas.

He stressed that the primary objective of the Revolution was to liberate all citizens, regardless of their religion, ethnicity, or background, and provide sustainable development to help them overcome economic challenges.

Hemed assured that, in collaboration with other leaders, he would work to promote the positive developments taking place in the country, including the construction of roads, which are key to economic growth for all residents of Unguja and Pemba.

He also called on drivers and other road users to follow traffic laws and safety guidelines to avoid unnecessary accidents that lead to fatalities, permanent disabilities, and damage to infrastructure built at great cost to the government for the benefit of all citizens.

Hemed condemned the actions of some individuals who incite divisions among people and use bad language, which could disrupt peace—one of the most significant values of the 1964 Revolution. He urged citizens to continue preserving, protecting, and defending the Revolution for the benefit of current and future generation .

Dr. Khalid Salum Muhammed, Zanzibar’s Minister for Works, Communications, and Transport said that the government is committed to solving transportation issues in Zanzibar by constructing modern roads, launching plans for  public transportation train system, and starting   maritime taxi project to further improve transport options.

Dr. Khalid urged citizens to be patient during the ongoing development of various projects and to cooperate with contractors to achieve the government's goals of improving citizens' livelihoods.

Dr. Habiba Hassan Omar, Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, explained that the Mazizini to Maungani roads are part of an internal road construction project. The 28.164 kilometers of Mazizini Road, built by China Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC), will significantly improve transportation for residents in the affected areas.

Dr. Habiba noted that the completed project will cost over 21 million US dollars, funded by the Zanzibar Revolutionary government. It will meet high standards, including proper drainage, pedestrian bridges, and safety road markings to accommodate all road users, especially those with special needs.