Zanzibar VP tells ministers: Go to the people, don't just read files

Zanzibar's Second Vice President, Hemed Suleiman Abdulla, has directed ministers to leave their offices and engage directly with citizens to understand and resolve their issues. He stressed that relying on information received in offices can lead to misinformation and that leaders must be proactive in addressing the populace's concerns.

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I have already given instructions. As the chief executive of the government, I don't want to see ministers who are 'files'. I want them to go 'on site' to listen to the grievances faced by the people.

During a tour of development projects, Abdulla visited the construction site of Terminal 2 at Abeid Aman Karume International Airport in Unguja. He highlighted the project's significance for the economy and tourism, particularly in light of upcoming events like the Africa Cup of Nations finals. He noted that the new terminal, along with Terminal 3, will significantly increase the airport's passenger capacity.

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If you wait for information in the office, you might be deceived. Our leader has already said it, and my instructions are to go 'on site'.

The Vice President also inspected the fuel processing area at the Integrated Port in Mangapwani. He suggested that local companies with the capacity should be given opportunities to participate in building projects or investments. He further stated that the infrastructure development in this area will greatly improve fuel availability in Zanzibar and boost job creation.

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This is a very important area for upcoming events like the Africa Cup of Nations finals, and it will be a key factor in our success in those competitions, as one of the places they will pass through is this air gate.

Minister of Works and Transport, Dr. Khalid Mohamed Salum, provided details on the airport's capacity, stating that upon completion, the airport will handle 3.6 million passengers annually, a substantial increase from the current 2.6 million. He also mentioned that the new terminal will be crucial for hosting international events.

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So when we complete these buildings, our airport will have the capacity to handle 3.6 million passengers per year, while currently, we have approximately 2.6 million passengers, so our capacity has increased.