ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR is seeking to expand trade and investment links with Kenya by improving transport connectivity, strengthening product standards and attracting investors into key sectors including tourism, aviation and the Blue Economy.
President Hussein Mwinyi said the two sides have significant opportunities to deepen economic cooperation during a meeting with Kenya’s High Commissioner to Tanzania, Ms Catherine Karemu, at State House in Zanzibar.
Dr Mwinyi said stronger cooperation will be build on existing historical and economic ties while creating new opportunities for businesses, investors and communities on both sides.
He underscored the need for closer coordination among standards institutions within the East African Community (EAC), saying harmonised standards would reduce barriers that limit movement of goods and improve access to regional markets.
“Strengthening cooperation among standards authorities is essential in facilitating trade and ensuring our products can move freely across the region,” he said.
The President said improving maritime connectivity will be central to expanding trade flows, pointing to the construction of Shumba Port in Micheweni District, North Pemba Region, as a strategic project that will strengthen links with Kenya’s coastal trade routes, particularly Mombasa.
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He said the port is expected to improve passenger and cargo movement, reduce transport costs and create new opportunities for businesses in Pemba and Kenya.
Dr Mwinyi also called for expanded direct air connections between Zanzibar and Kenya, saying improved connectivity would support tourism growth, increase investment flows and strengthen commercial and people-to-people links.
He invited Kenyan investors to explore opportunities in Zanzibar, particularly in tourism, the Blue Economy and other sectors with potential to create jobs and support economic growth.
The President identified seaweed farming as another area for cooperation, saying Zanzibar is interested in working with Kenya to exchange expertise, improve production methods, promote value addition and expand markets for seaweed products.
For her part, High Commissioner Karemu pledged to strengthen cooperation between Kenya and Zanzibar in trade, investment, tourism, transport and other development sectors.
She said Kenya would work closely with the Zanzibar government to identify new areas of partnership that deliver economic benefits for both sides.