President Mwinyi inaugurates new Mnazi Mmoja gardens
Zanzibar's President Dr. Hussein Mwinyi cuts the ribbon to mark the inauguration of the Mnazimmoja Gardens built by the Stone Town Municipal Council in collaboration with Infinity Developments Company. He is flanked by the Chairman of Infinity Developments Mr Samuel Saba on the left.
What you need to know:
- The Mnazi Mmoja gardens was constructed by Infinity Developments at a cost of $450,000 in collaboration with the Stone Town Authorities
Unguja. Zanzibar’s President Dr. Hussein Mwinyi has on Monday July 15, officially inaugurated the newly constructed Mnazi Mmoja Gardens in Stone Town, a vibrant green space that is set to transform the area, providing a much-needed relief for families visiting the nearby Mnazi Mmoja Hospital.
The Mnazi Mmoja Gardens, developed by Infinity Development in collaboration with the Stone Town Authority, are designed not only for the relaxation of patients and visitors but also to enhance Stone Town and establish it as a prominent local attraction.
The aerial view of the new Mnazi Mmoja gardens which was inagurated by President Mwinyi on Monday, July 15.
President Mwinyi praised the initiative, noting how it beautifies the landscape of Stone Town and offers an inviting space for both patients and visitors, while also serving as a major tourist destination.
He emphasized that the government's current plan includes the development of more gardens to increase the island's charm and attract tourists from around the world.
He urged the leadership of Stone Town and municipal authorities to maintain and keep the garden clean to achieve their intended goals.
"Today, we see the opening of these gardens, and I hope to see no litter tomorrow. We must take care of our environment; otherwise, it will not be preserved," he stated.
President Mwinyi addresses the audience during the innauguration of the Mnazi Mmoja gardens
President Mwinyi pointed out that the construction of such gardens reflects the government's commitment to modernizing and transforming Stone Town into a more contemporary city.
The Mnazi Mmoja Gardens cover an impressive 6,270 square meters and were developed at a cost exceeding $450,000. Strategically located opposite Mnazi Mmoja Hospital along Kaunda Road, Mtoro Road, and Museum Road, the garden serves as a serene haven for visitors and locals alike.
Completed in just nine months, the green oasis aims to provide a tranquil environment for families visiting the hospital. With lush landscaping and inviting pathways, the garden is expected to become a popular gathering spot and a source of comfort during challenging times.
Authorities say the construction of the Mnazi Mmoja Gardens reflects the community's commitment to fostering green spaces in urban areas.
Contractors have also indicated plans for more similar initiatives in the pipeline, signaling a promising future for Zanzibar’s green infrastructure.
Michael Makoye, the construction manager and architect from Infinity Developments, highlighted that the garden features four main areas: a restaurant, public resting areas, irrigation facilities, and additional lighting for nighttime illumination.
"We have improved walking and sitting areas and planted two types of grass. Despite challenges such as raising the garden to prevent waterlogging, the construction has been largely successful," he noted.
On his part Ali Said Bakar, the director general of the Stone Town Conservation and Development Authority, described it as the first modern garden in Stone Town.
"According to UNESCO heritage laws, cities must be attractive and well-maintained. This project not only beautifies the area for those visiting patients but also strategically enhances tourism," he said.
Meanwhile, Minister of Tourism and Heritage Ramadhan Soraga stated that the presence of such gardens on the island would stimulate tourism growth and attract more visitors to Zanzibar. He added that these initiatives will help achieve Zanzibar's goal of hosting more than 800,000 tourists annually by 2025.
