AfricaPress-Tanzania: ZANZIBAR has embarked on construction of a state-of-the-art laboratory for testing and researches of Covid-19 virus, with President Ali Mohammed Shein imploring all Zanzibaris to support the noble project.
In his pre-Ramadan Holy Month speech delivered here yesterday, Dr Shein said the revolutionary government had already established the anti-virus special fund.
He was optimistic that the ministry of finance and planning will manage it properly to accomplish the envisaged goals, including financing Covid-19 quarantine and treatment centres, procurement of preventive tools for medics spearheading the fight against the deadly virus as well as giving fiscal motivation to medics.
Upon completion of the laboratory, Zanzibar will be able to conduct tests for the deadly corona virus instead of sending samples to laboratories in the mainland.
“The government will appreciate any donation and is ready to receive any amount from all citizens,” President Shein pleaded, reminding wananchi to observe all government and expert directives on Coronavirus.
“One of the most important measures in the fight against Covid-19 is to avoid crowds. Although avoidance of crowds is proving difficult for our society, we still have to strive…crowds are among the fast virus spreading ways,” remarked the president, strongly disapproving of gatherings.
He advised all Islanders to work hard against the virus spread and use the current rains to boost agricultural production to meet the country’s food demand.
President Shein also reminded traders to observe hygienic rules at the markets and all authorised trading areas, especially during this rainy season.
“We must also intensify tidiness at our residential areas to protect ourselves against other disease outbreaks,” he ordered.
President Shein ordered Zanzibar city and its municipal authorities to supervise cleanliness in the city streets and markets.
Dr Shein condemned stigma against Covid-19 victims who medical doctors have certified to have fully recovered and allowed back to their residences.
“We are duty bound to cooperate and give them comfort to enable them cope with life…they are our brothers and sisters,” he said.
He asked all Muslims to use the holy month to repent their sins and draw closer to the Almighty God.
