Rais Mwinyi calls for stronger citizen-driven economic growth through empowerment

Zanzibar has launched the third Fahari ya Zanzibar festival for 2026, placing entrepreneurship, innovation and digital technology at the center of efforts to strengthen the economy of ordinary citizens.

At the opening ceremony in Unguja on Sept. 5, Second Vice President Hemed Suleiman Abdulla, speaking on behalf of Zanzibar President Hussein Ali Mwinyi, said the festival had become an important platform for entrepreneurs and producers to promote their products and gain business knowledge.

Stanbic Tanzania and the Zanzibar Economic Empowerment Agency signed a five-year memorandum of understanding at the event. The partnership aims to strengthen entrepreneurship, expand access to financial services and promote sustainable businesses in Zanzibar. Stanbic said it would support small and medium-sized entrepreneurs and connect businesses in Unguja and Pemba with financial institutions, investors and other development partners.

Mwinyi said the slogan “Our Products Are Our Pride” seeks to add value to Zanzibar’s products so they can compete in international markets. He urged young people to use technology to create jobs rather than rely solely on the government. Entrepreneurs, he said, should meet quality standards and repay loans on time so other people can benefit from the financing cycle.

Financial institutions were asked to create products that serve young people, women and small businesses. The Ministry of Youth was also told to develop innovative programs and strengthen monitoring systems to measure the results of economic empowerment. Stanbic executive Fredrick Max said capital alone was not enough, pointing to the need for business skills, sound financial management, digital ability, marketing, commercial advice and networks that connect traders with opportunities.

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The government is prepared to ensure that citizens’ economy becomes stronger by creating a favorable environment and having strong systems.