ZANZIBAR Second Vice President, Hemed Suleiman Abdulla has said that 60 years of the union have improved social and economic status of people in both mainland and the isles.

Abdulla made the remarks at the weekend during the launch of exhibition to mark the 60th anniversary of the union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar at Mnazi Mmoja grounds in Dar es Salaam that was organized by the Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TanTrade).

He said leaders have succeeded in resolving many of the contentious issues of the union and strengthened unity, peace, stability and economic growth in both sides.

He cited improvement of social services such as provision of clean and safe water, health, education, community welfare, housing, and transport.

Abdulla said wellbeing of the people has improved and the economy has grown on both sides of the union due to cooperation that provides opportunities and flexibility that facilitates the flow of goods, capital, people, and services between Tanzania mainland and Zanzibar. 

“This has allowed big and small businesspeople to invest in both sides of the union in various sectors including industries, hotels, agriculture, and manufacturing which contribute to increasing employment for the people," he said.

Abdulla urged people to protect, strengthen and maintain the union for the benefit of current and future generations.

Khamis Hamza Khamis, Deputy Minister of State in the Vice President's Office (Union and Environment) said the Union is safe and will continue to thrive for the benefit of Tanzanians.

Mohamed Tajin, TanTrade business development manager, said the aim of the exhibition of the 60th anniversary of the union was for institutions to be able to participate by providing education to the public about the services they provide.

He said that they invited Tanzanians to visit the exhibition to understand the services provided, including promotion of business in the country and abroad through exhibitions held every year, adding that this year it will be held from June 28 to July 13.