Zanzibar — The Zanzibar government has stated that it will continue to take strategic measures to ensure that challenges facing people with disabilities in the country are addressed with lasting solutions, including access to social, political, and economic rights without discrimination, as well as access to various opportunities.

This was stated today, December 3, 2025, by the President of Zanzibar, Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, during the culmination of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities celebrations, held at the Dr Ali Mohamed Shein Hall in Tunguu, Unguja South.

Additionally, President Dr Mwinyi outlined various measures being taken by the government, noting that the government considers the specific needs of people with disabilities in infrastructure development, such as hospitals, schools, public offices, and roads. For example, he said that the government has built two special schools for students with disabilities in South Unguja and Pemba and intends to build three more schools in other regions.

Furthermore, President Dr Mwinyi stated that the government will continue to provide subsidies, assistive devices, training, and interest-free loans to people with disabilities to support their economic empowerment and self-reliance. He urged citizens and society at large to register all children with disabilities so that they can receive free equipment from the government.

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President Dr Mwinyi also noted that the government will continue offering interest-free loans through the Citizens' Economic Empowerment Agency (ZEEA), along with matching funds from local governments, for people with disabilities to help improve their livelihoods.

On another note, President Dr. Mwinyi expressed gratitude to both domestic and international stakeholders for their cooperation in supporting people with disabilities and emphasised that the government will continue working with these stakeholders to find sustainable solutions to the challenges they face.