Zanzibar is signalling an ambitious push toward becoming a digital hub of innovation and technology, with President Hussein Ali Mwinyi expressing strong government intent to develop the islands as a centre for digital business, entrepreneurs, and innovators. This strategy builds on efforts to diversify the economy beyond tourism and leverage digital connectivity and infrastructure for economic growth. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

The original source for this report — “Mwinyi keen to establish digital hub in Isles” — can be found here: https://legacy.ippmedia.com/en/features/mwinyi-keen-establish-digital-hub-isles

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A Vision for a Digital Innovation Hub

President Mwinyi has publicly stated that the government recognizes the transformative potential of technology and digital entrepreneurship for Zanzibar’s future. The core idea is to create an environment that attracts:

• digital businesses
• remote tech professionals
• start-ups and innovators
• global investment into tech infrastructure and services

This vision reflects a broader shift in thinking about how island economies can move beyond traditional sectors and into knowledge-driven, digital-first innovation. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

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Building Digital Infrastructure

Central to the digital hub plan is investment in foundational connectivity and infrastructure. Among the key developments noted in related reporting are:

• the rollout of a new undersea fibre-optic cable connection to Zanzibar
• partnerships aimed at strengthening internet access and reliability
• discussions with private and international partners on infrastructure deployment

Improved connectivity is viewed as essential to enabling digital services, remote work, e-commerce, and tech business operations on the islands. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

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Policy, Regulation, and Investment Incentives

President Mwinyi and government officials have pointed to existing laws and policies that support digital transformation, but have also signalled openness to further adjustments to remove legal bottlenecks and accelerate implementation. The commitment is aimed at creating an investment-friendly environment that includes:

• regulatory support for digital enterprise
• incentives for strategic tech investments
• enhanced public-private partnerships

These measures are designed to attract both local innovators and foreign investors to contribute to the digital economy in Zanzibar. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

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Connecting Skills to Opportunity

Beyond infrastructure, the government envisions the digital hub as a space for knowledge building and talent development. Creating opportunities for local youth and entrepreneurs — through training, incubation, and access to digital markets — is seen as a key part of scaling Zanzibar’s digital transformation.

This approach positions Zanzibar to compete not just with other East African tech centres, but as a global destination for digital living and working, particularly appealing to digital nomads, tech founders, and international organisations seeking a strategic base in the region. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

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A Step Toward Digital Diversification

The plan for a digital hub continues Zanzibar’s broader economic diversification agenda, which also includes innovation in education, technology, and regional competitiveness. As with other digital ecosystem initiatives on the islands, success will depend on execution, sustained investment, and the ability to connect local talent with global opportunities.

President Mwinyi’s statements signal a clear policy direction toward a digital future — one that blends infrastructure, investment, and human capital to redefine Zanzibar’s role on the global digital map. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

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