ZANZIBAR, Dec 13 (NNN-DAILYNEWS) –THE European Union (EU) has solidified its commitment to Zanzibar’s sustainable development by signing two key agreements. These agreements aim to enhance marine conservation, promote gender equality, and empower local communities.
The first agreement, valued at 32bn/- will further fund the Bahari Yetu (“Our Ocean”) Project. This initiative, part of the EU’s Team Europe Initiative for the Blue Economy, is implemented by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
The project will focus on protecting marine resources, promoting sustainable fishing practices, and combating plastic pollution. The second agreement, worth 8.8bn/- will expand the EU’s Gender Transformative Action programme in Zanzibar.
This programme, implemented by UN Women and the Ministry responsible for Gender, aims to break down barriers to women’s rights and empower women in both public and private sectors.
A particular focus will be on promoting girls’ education, especially at the tertiary level. Speaking at the signing ceremony, Zanzibar’s Minister for Community Development, Gender, Elderly and Children Riziki Pembe Juma, expressed gratitude for the EU’s continued support. She highlighted the importance of these agreements in addressing critical development challenges.
Hans Stausboll, Acting Director for Africa at the European Commission, said the EU’s is dedicated to fostering sustainable development and inclusive growth in Zanzibar.
“This partnership is an example of the EU’s broader mission to deliver tangible, long-term benefits for all Zanzibaris, contributing to shared prosperity, sustainability, and social inclusion,” he said .
Speaking on behalf of the EU, Managing Director for Africa at the European External Action Service (EEAS), Rita Laranjinha said these agreements demonstrate the EU’s unwavering commitment to Zanzibar’s long-term development, from fostering sustainable marine practices to advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment.
The signing ceremony was attended by senior government officials, development partners, and representatives from civil society organizations.
The agreements mark a significant step forward in the EU-Zanzibar partnership, reinforcing their commitment to a shared future of sustainable development and gender equality. — NNN-DAILYNEWS
