President Hussein Mwinyi said digital transformation has become a cornerstone of Zanzibar’s development strategy, citing its role in improving efficiency, transparency, and accountability across public institutions.

Speaking on Monday during a meeting with Tanzania’s Union Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Angellah Kairuki, and senior officials at State House in Zanzibar, Mwinyi said modern digital infrastructure is essential for effective governance and sustainable economic growth.

“Digital systems are no longer optional. They are critical for managing public resources, delivering services, and supporting long-term development,” he said.

A key priority highlighted was the planned construction of a data centre in Zanzibar to strengthen data security, improve system reliability, and reduce dependence on external infrastructure. The facility is expected to support e-government services and enhance continuity in public administration.

The president also underscored the need to expand high-speed internet connectivity, particularly in public institutions and underserved communities, noting that reliable access is vital for improving health, education, and administrative services, as well as attracting private investment and supporting innovation.

Kairuki said her ministry would continue to work closely with the Zanzibar government to ensure secure, reliable, and high-quality communication services that meet national and international standards.

She added that Zanzibar’s digital initiatives are aligned with Tanzania’s wider digital governance agenda and complement global efforts to promote e-government, domestic resource mobilisation, and inclusive digital access.

Development partners have increasingly identified digital public infrastructure as a key enabler of service delivery, fiscal sustainability, and inclusive growth across Africa—areas Zanzibar is seeking to strengthen as it advances its long-term socio-economic development agenda.

Notes to Editors

• The Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar is prioritising digital transformation as a central pillar of governance reform, public service delivery, and domestic revenue mobilisation.
• Digitalisation is being positioned as a tool to improve efficiency, transparency, and accountability across public institutions, in line with regional and global governance best practices.
• Planned investments include the construction of a national data centre to enhance data security, system resilience, and continuity of government operations.

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