ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR is planning to construct an integrated seaport at Mangapwani and designate it as a free port zone in a strategic move aimed at restoring its historic status as a regional trade hub.
Acting Minister for Trade and Industrial Development, Shariff Ali Shariff, revealed the plan while responding to questions in the House of Representatives from Mahmoud Shineni Ali (Chambani) and Mmanga Mohammed Hamed (Tumbe), both members of ACT-Wazalendo.
The legislators sought clarification on government efforts to revive Zanzibar’s long-standing role as a commercial gateway, a status it has held for centuries.
Mr Shariff said the proposed Mangapwani port would improve the movement of goods, boost exports and imports and strengthen Zanzibar’s access to regional and international markets.
He added that designating the area as a free port is expected to attract investment and stimulate trade growth.
Mangapwani has been identified as a key site for the project due to its strategic coastal location, which the government believes could support expanded maritime trade and logistics operations.
He noted that since the 1990s, the government has operated free economic zones in Maruhubi, currently managed by the Zanzibar Investment Promotion Authority, as part of wider efforts to promote trade and attract investment.
The minister added that the government is also focusing on empowering local entrepreneurs and traders to produce competitive, highquality goods.
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This includes encouraging participation in national, regional, and international trade fairs, as well as providing training in packaging, branding, and quality certification.
“These initiatives are aimed at strengthening the trade sector and positioning Zanzibar as a competitive player in global markets,” he said.