Zanzibar, a renowned tourist destination, is taking steps to diversify its economy by venturing into the information and technology sector. The Zanzibar ICT Infrastructure Agency (ZICTIA) is spearheading several IT projects, including establishing an international gateway from Mombasa, constructing a data center, and creating a digital free zone to attract businesses.
Traditionally reliant on tourism, Zanzibar now seeks to generate employment opportunities and boost national income by investing in the IT industry.
In a collaborative three-day conference organized by ZICTIA in partnership with companies like FreeFold, technology’s role in urban expansion was showcased. President Dr. Hussein Mwinyi believes these enterprises will result in the growth of local talent and lead to significant developments in the ICT sector.
President Mwinyi promises full support from his administration to ensure the successful execution of these initiatives. He expressed readiness to work together as a team to implement necessary changes in policy, authority, and registration, transforming Zanzibar into a thriving digital free zone.
The key components include establishing strong international gateway infrastructure, a submarine cable data center, and a nationwide fiber optic network, with collaboration from the private sector.
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ZICTIA’s executive director, Shukuru Hawadh Suleiman, plans to acquire 3,000 hectares for a cyber metropolis within the digital free zone to attract major corporate investments. Currently, FreeFold primarily supports innovative small businesses, but their ambition extends to developing the internet in this thriving economic zone.
According to Kristof de Spiegeleer, the founder of Threefold Company, Zanzibar not only offers a promising investment location but also boasts a conducive environment for change. The internet, now an essential part of learning, communication, and innovation, will play a significant role in the digital free zone initiative.
Embracing digitalization could bring great economic benefits to Zanzibar, enabling access to a global market without the need for physical presence.
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With these ambitious IT projects, Zanzibar is set to embark on a new economic trajectory, capitalizing on technology’s transformative power to build a prosperous and future.
