Zanzibar has expressed readiness to further strengthen its bilateral cooperation with the Russian Federation and its private sector in key development areas, including energy, ports and transport, tourism, education and research, health, and the Blue Economy.
President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, made the remarks on September 28, 2026, when he met with a Russian delegation led by Mr Denis Agafonov, Head of the Directorate of Experts in the Office of the President of the Russian Federation, together with Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Mr James Kinyasi Millya.
President Mwinyi said Zanzibar has significant opportunities to deepen cooperation with Russia in the energy sector, particularly in electricity generation and access, renewable energy development, as well as nuclear energy technology.
He said preliminary scientific studies indicate the possible existence of oil and natural gas resources in Zanzibar, particularly in offshore areas, noting that the government is ready to work with Russian companies possessing the expertise and technology required for the exploration, assessment and development of such resources.
On ports and transportation, President Mwinyi said Zanzibar’s strategic location provides significant opportunities to strengthen trade and transport activities across the East and Central African region.
He noted that construction of the Mangapwani Integrated Port is ongoing, adding that Zanzibar is ready to cooperate with Russia in construction, technology and port management expertise to enhance the islands’ capacity to become a major trade gateway in the region.
In the tourism sector, President Mwinyi said Zanzibar aims to increase the number of tourists from Russia, particularly as direct air connections between Zanzibar and Moscow continue to strengthen, while also seeking to attract more investment in tourism projects.
Dr Mwinyi said the government is ready to cooperate with Russian investors in projects aimed at adding value to the tourism sector, promoting trade and expanding employment opportunities for Zanzibaris.
President Mwinyi further said Zanzibar seeks to strengthen long-term cooperation with Russia by expanding scholarship opportunities for Tanzanian students, promoting joint research, and establishing vocational training and research centres.
He said such cooperation could also focus on marine science and technology as part of efforts to support the implementation of Zanzibar’s Blue Economy policies and programmes.
President Mwinyi said the government is also ready to cooperate with Russia in strengthening the fisheries sector through technology, expertise and investment that would help increase production and add value to marine products.
In the health sector, President Mwinyi said Zanzibar seeks to expand the use of telemedicine technology to connect patients at health facilities with specialists based at other health centres and referral hospitals.
He thanked the Russian delegation for visiting Zanzibar and demonstrating its commitment to advancing cooperation between Tanzania and the Russian Federation.
He stressed the importance of translating the areas discussed into concrete projects capable of delivering tangible results to the people.
For his part, Mr Denis Agafonov said Russia has extensive experience and expertise in various sectors, particularly energy, and is ready to continue discussions with Zanzibar on areas offering opportunities for cooperation and investment.