ZANZIBAR: THE Minister of State in the President’s Office for Constitution, Legal Affairs Public Service and Good Governance, Dr Haroun Ali Suleiman, has announced that the government has prepared a comprehensive plan to formally recognise Imams and Madrasa teachers across Zanzibar.
Responding to a question from Tumbe Representative Mr Mmanga Mohammed Hamed, Dr Suleiman said the Mufti’s Office in Pemba has already held discussions with madrasa teachers and mosque imams in North Pemba, including Tumbe.
During the meeting, religious leaders were commended for supporting the government and promoting peace and stability in the country.
Dr Suleiman said the Office of the Mufti of Zanzibar is currently conducting a nationwide re-registration exercise for mosques and madrasas in Unguja and Pemba. So far, 1,367 mosques and 2,878 madrasas have been registered.
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Additionally, 4,092 madrasa teachers, 1,789 men and 2,303 women have undergone professional training to formalise their recognition.
He further revealed that a National Committee for the Development of Zanzibar Madrasas was officially launched on June 26, 2025, by President Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi.
The committee aims to recognise madrasa teachers and develop long-term strategies to improve their welfare based on educational qualifications.
The government also plans to establish a voluntary special fund to support madrasa teachers, with contributions from public servants to improve their economic wellbeing.