Africa-Press – Tanzania. AS Tanzania yesterday marked 61 years of the Union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar, politicians in the country have praised the progress made in fostering unity and equitable development.
The politicians called for continued cooperation and economic empowerment of Tanzanians on both sides of the merger.
They also urged citizens to honour the vision of the country’s founders by preserving peace, unity and shared national identity the values that have long defined the strength of Tanzania.
Shaurimoyo MP Ali Juma Mohamed (CCM) commended the growing collaboration between institutions in Zanzibar and Mainland Tanzania, calling it a positive development for the strength and prosperity of the Union.
He also applauded the government for ensuring fairness in employment opportunities, noting a balanced distribution of jobs across the two regions. “I commend the government for this approach, which promotes fairness and justice for both sides of the Union,” he said.
Echoing these sentiments, Jang’ombe MP Ali Hassan-Omar King (CCM) highlighted the need for Zanzibar to have more economic autonomy, particularly in harnessing opportunities in the deep sea.
With Zanzibar’s population stands at 1.8 million compared to Mainland Tanzania’s 60 million, he argued that economic space is essential for the island’s development. “Zanzibar’s land is slowly being lost to the sea and I suggest that Zanzibar be given the opportunity to economically benefit from the deep sea to ensure sustainable growth,” he said. “There are no challenges in the Union, only opportunities. The ministry should explore what economic opportunities exist.”
Speaking to the Sunday News outside the debating chamber, Tunduru North MP Hassan Kungu (CCM) said he firmly believes in the Union’s importance, describing it as a vital pillar of national security and stability.
“The Union has brought us peace and protection. If the Union falters, we are the ones who suffer,” he said. “As we head toward elections, we must focus on preserving our unity and trusting our Independent National Electoral Commission, rather than being swayed by political rhetoric,” he said.
Maswa West MP Mashimba Ndaki (CCM) added that Tanzanians should recognise the uniqueness of the Union, noting that few countries or none in Africa or elsewhere have managed to maintain such a lasting merger.
“Our Union has made us one. Whether you are from the Mainland or Zanzibar, outside the country, you are known simply as a Tanzanian,” he said. “We must stand together and not let anything shake our Union.”
Morogoro South MP Innocent Kalogeris (CCM) stressed the economic and social benefits the Union has brought, especially in reinforcing national unity.
“The most important thing is that love, unity and solidarity continue to thrive,” he said. “We must reject and resist any statements that seek to divide us.”
Meanwhile, Zanzibar Minister for Infrastructure, Communication and Transport, Dr Khalid Salum Mohamed, said that the majority of major development projects in Zanzibar are backed by the Union government through its financial guarantees.
“Let us celebrate. Our Union remains unique and important for the people in both Zanzibar and Mainland Tanzania. We have many ongoing projects such as road construction and port developments that are being implemented with the support of the Union government,” Dr Khalid said.
He said that peace and stability are among the most valuable achievements of the Union, allowing citizens to move freely and conduct business across the country. “People enjoy freedom of movement throughout the United Republic of Tanzania and that is a key benefit of our union,” he said. Echoing similar sentiments, Zanzibar’s Minister for Information, Youth, Culture and Sports, Ms Tabia Maulid Mwita, said the Union has played a significant role in uplifting young people and promoting sports development.
“There are countless benefits of the Union, especially for youth and sports. Let us talk about the Union in a positive way because we want it to last. Our rapid progress toward development is possible because we have remained stable under the Union,” she noted.
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