08 August 2013, Zanzibar – Zanzibar is eager to see that it has its own source of power as soon as possible, according to a top government official.
Currently, the islands get power from Tanzania national grid through Dar es Salaam and Tanga on the mainland.
“We are restless and want to see that Zanzibar has different sources of electricity as soon as possible. Many investors have shown interest and the government is studying the available options,” said the Second Vice-President, Mr Seif Ali Iddi when closing the House’s budget session.
He said Zanzibar still remained vulnerable to erratic electricity supply and the only solution was to have a reliable alternative power source.
Iddi informed the House that several foreign companies had shown interest in investing in solar, wind, waste and sea waves generation of electricity for the 1.3 million people living on the islands.
“Studies have been going on to find out the most appropriate source of electricity for our islands. We ask the people to be patient as the government is committed on this matter,” said Mr Seif.
Meanwhile, the second vice-president has reiterated his call to Zanzibaris to make sure that they register their land in support of the ongoing national land master plan which will see development of the towns.
He said land registration also aimed at minimising land conflicts in the islands. He accused some leaders of fomenting land disputes, mainly plots fronting the sea.
