Zanzibar seeks Russian energy partnerships and launches new digital policy

Zanzibar President Hussein Ali Mwinyi has expressed readiness to strengthen cooperation with the Russian Federation across several strategic sectors, including energy, ports, tourism, health, and the Blue Economy. During a meeting with a Russian delegation, President Mwinyi highlighted opportunities in energy production, specifically mentioning the potential for nuclear technology and the exploration of offshore oil and gas resources.

Regarding maritime infrastructure, the President noted that the ongoing construction of the Mangapwani Integrated Port offers a chance for Russian expertise in construction and port operations to help position Zanzibar as a trade gateway for East and Central Africa. Additionally, the administration aims to increase Russian tourism through improved direct flight connectivity between Zanzibar and Moscow.

On the technological front, President Mwinyi launched the Zanzibar Digital Policy 2026 at the Tech and AI Expo Zanzibar. He emphasized that Africa must transition from being a mere consumer of technology to a producer of innovation. The new policy aims to improve digital infrastructure, including a goal to connect 100,000 households to reliable internet via Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) within three years, alongside investments in submarine cables and data centers. The government is also developing an AI Strategy Framework to integrate artificial intelligence into sectors such as agriculture, health, and education.