Zanzibar’s President Champions Women’s Empowerment Ahead of Elections
Unguja – President Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi of Zanzibar has reiterated his administration’s commitment to fostering women’s empowerment and ensuring gender equality. He urged women to engage actively in the upcoming general elections slated for October 2025, which will encompass crucial leadership positions such as the Union President, Zanzibar President, Members of Parliament, and councilors.
During an event celebrating International Women’s Day, Dr. Mwinyi emphasized the government’s focus on creating equal economic opportunities for women through various empowerment initiatives. "The government will continue to prioritize this, hoping to see more women contesting for positions, especially in decision-making bodies," he stated.
The gathering witnessed the launch of new economic empowerment platforms aimed at combating abuse against women and children in Zanzibar. Dr. Mwinyi elaborated on the importance of enabling women to participate in the economy, highlighting that empowerment is about liberating them from dependency and safeguarding them from abuse.
With Zanzibar comprising 11 districts and five regions, Dr. Mwinyi noted that there should be no barriers preventing women from occupying leadership roles. Currently, the Isles have only one female regional commissioner and two female district commissioners. He urged women to seize opportunities and show exemplary performance when given the chance.
To support these initiatives, Dr. Mwinyi tasked the government with focusing on enhancing women’s empowerment platforms, coordinating efforts from the local Shehia level to the regional level. He called for a systematic approach to ensure effective oversight of these platforms, with clearly defined responsibilities and operational guidelines.
The President’s call coincides with this year’s theme on the role of women and girls as key drivers of development, aligning with the government’s broader goals of empowering women and children across the islands. Notably, the Zanzibar Economic Empowerment Agency (ZEEA) has reported that over 34,746 citizens have benefited from its programs, with women accounting for more than half of the beneficiaries.
With Sh34.9 billion disbursed in loans, 60 percent has been specifically allocated to women. The Second Vice President of Zanzibar, Mr. Hemed Suleiman Abdulla, emphasized the pivotal role of unity among women working in groups to ensure the success of these initiatives.
The Minister for Community Development, Gender, Elderly, and Children, Ms. Riziki Pembe Juma, highlighted her ministry’s efforts in collaboration with both local and international partners to enhance women’s opportunities. Permanent Secretary Ms. Abeda Rashid Abdallah noted that despite women representing 52 percent of the population according to the 2022 census, they still face challenges in political and economic arenas.
She concluded by urging society to recognize and prioritize women’s potential, enabling them to make significant contributions to development.
