Zanzibar sets stage for major investment push in Pemba

Pemba. As part of efforts to unlock Pemba’s investment potential, the government of Zanzibar will, for the first time, host a high-level investment forum on the island.

The forum, which is scheduled to be officially opened June 16, 2025, by President Hussein Ali Mwinyi of Zanzibar, is expected to draw stakeholders from across the East African region. Its main objective is to showcase the wide range of investment opportunities available on the island.

The event will take place in the Micheweni Free Economic Zone, located in North Pemba Region. The 800.8-hectare site has already begun receiving investors, and the government is actively improving infrastructure to support future developments.

Upgrades include the construction of a 15-kilometre access road, as well as the installation of electricity, water supply and internet connectivity.

Speaking on Sunday, following a charity walk at the site of the upcoming forum, Zanzibar’s Chief Secretary, Ms Zena Said, said the time had come for Pemba to fully open up to investment.

"This is Pemba’s moment. The government has deliberately chosen to bring this forum here to highlight the numerous opportunities available—just as we have done in Unguja,” she said.

Ms Said encouraged local residents to participate actively, noting that investment should not be seen as a venture for foreigners only.

"Our goal is to open Pemba through the Zanzibar Investment Promotion Authority (ZIPA), and this forum is a key component of that strategy," she added.

The government, she said, is creating a conducive environment for investors and is also raising public awareness to ensure that citizens benefit from available opportunities.

ZIPA director, Mr Saleh Saad Mohamed, said the authority is strategically focused on promoting Pemba as an investment destination within the Zanzibar archipelago.

“We are implementing deliberate measures to attract investors, which is why the government decided to host this forum in Micheweni,” he said.

According to Mr Mohamed, infrastructure development is aimed at eliminating barriers for investors, with the area earmarked for sectors such as residential housing, hospitality, healthcare, education and ICT.

He added that the government had amended the Investment Act No. 14 of 2018, which is now replaced by Act No. 10 of 2013, and is expected to launch a new investment guide later this year.

Given the importance of youth and innovation, the government has also allocated a dedicated zone within the area for start-up businesses.