Zanzibar’s future: Innovation driving blue economy

ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR stands at a pivotal moment in its development, where the promise of a sustainable, prosperous future is intertwined with the potential of its blue economy.

As an island rich in marine resources, Zanzibar is uniquely positioned to leverage the vast opportunities within its oceans, from fisheries to renewable energy, tourism and ecosystem preservation.

Central to this vision is the role of innovation and scientific research, which will drive the island’s economic growth while ensuring the protection of its delicate marine ecosystems

Zanzibar’s President Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi recently underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to its Blue Economy vision, highlighting the vital role that scientific research and innovation will play in driving this transformative agenda.

“For Zanzibar, the blue economy represents more than just a policy—it’s a bold, forward-thinking approach that seeks to harness the island’s marine resources in ways that drive long-term, sustainable growth,” Dr Mwinyi said after laying the foundation stone of the Institute of Marine Sciences (IMS) at Buyu, Chukwani in Unguja West B District.

The IMS will help cultivate the expertise and sustainable solutions necessary to make informed, evidence-based decisions that will benefit people for generations.

“The institute is well-positioned to produce experts in these fields as well as in other sectors of the blue economy including seaports, oil and gas and maritime transport.

“Our core policy is the blue economy,” Dr Mwinyi said adding:

“We are working to develop policies based on research findings and we believe the knowledge generated here will help shape policies that drive progress in this sector”.

The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) Chancellor and former President, Jakaya Kikwete, said the institute will play a central role in advancing Zanzibar’s blue economy agenda.

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He said another commendable step was to secure the land title deed for the IMS, which is a critical step for the project’s funding, as per World Bank construction requirements.

The IMS Director and Senior Lecturer at Buyu Campus, Dr Mwita Mangora, said the research will focus on key areas such as fishing, aquaculture, marine culture, crustaceans, and the conservation of natural resources.

“The research will focus on climate change, primarily on ecosystems and environmental degradation,” he said.

Zanzibar’s Minister for Blue Economy and Fisheries, Mr Shaaban Ali Othman, stated the importance of human resources, research, technology and expertise, which the institute will provide, affirming his ministry’s full cooperation with IMS.

Mr Othman further noted that strengthening human resources and fostering innovation through research and technology would be crucial in advancing the isles’ blue economy agenda.

The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) Vice-Chancellor, Prof William Anangisye, said that the project aims to generate knowledge that strengthens academic, economic, social and technological fields both locally and globally.

The 11.1bn/- project, under the Higher Education for Economic Transformation (HEET) initiative, is funded by the World Bank through the Ministry of Science and Technology, with 50.24 hectares allocated over two decades ago.

The project once completed late this year will feature five laboratories and will accommodate approximately 300 students.

Tanzania’s Minister for Education, Science and Technology, Prof Adolf Mkenda said that the initiative, funded by the WB, aims to enhance research capabilities and promote sustainable fishery practices in the region.

“The focus on education and capacity building is central to the success of Zanzibar’s blue economy strategy,” he said pinpointing the importance of aligning academic programmes with the needs of the labour market.

Zanzibar’s Minister for Education and Vocational Training, Ms Lela Muhamed Mussa underlined the government’s investment in the blue economy.

“We aim to ensure that local youth, especially in coastal communities receive formal training to complement their practical fishing skills,” said Ms Mussa.

She said that they aim to tailor their education curricula from primary to secondary levels to prepare students for enrolment in the IMS and equip them with the necessary skills and expertise to serve in specialised marine related fields.

The World Bank’s Resident Representative in Tanzania, Mr Martine Kachingwe said the project is not only about expanding access to education but also about ensuring that universities like UDSM have the resources to lead research and innovation that can transform the economy.

Zanzibar’s Ministry of Blue Economy and Fisheries, Permanent Secretary, Captain Hamad Bakar Hamad, said the blue economy was essential to isles’ long-term development strategy.

“The research and expertise coming out of the Institute will be fundamental in shaping policies that were not only evidence-based but also responsive to the needs of the communities that rely on marine resources,” Captain Hamad said.

The Deputy HEET Coordinator at the University of Dar es Salaam, Dr Liberato Haule also said the research will concentrate on marine products, particularly seaweed and protection of fish species.

“Our goal is to add value to seaweed and involve the community more,” he said, noting that various groups and SMEs are already using seaweed to produce products such as soap, medicine, oils, and more.

The IMS expanded facilities will also enhance the Institute’s ability to conduct cutting-edge research and offer expert advice on marine policy and Blue Economy sectors.