Joseph Isangura
The Government of Tanzania has issued a stern warning to those it believes are intentionally misrepresenting or undermining the Union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar, calling on citizens to appreciate the strength and progress the nation has gained through this 60-year-old political alliance.
Speaking in Parliament on Monday, Khamis Hamza Khamis, Deputy Minister in the Vice President’s Office for Union and Environment, addressed growing public concerns about misinformation targeting the historical significance of the Union.
The remarks came in response to a question posed by Mariam Azan Mwinyi, a Member of Parliament representing Special Seats from Pemba Island, who pointed to what she described as a “rising trend of distortion and belittlement” of the Union’s foundation.
“Let me take this opportunity to strongly caution some Tanzanians against the tendency of undermining the Union,” Khamis said.
“All the progress we’ve achieved so far is thanks to the strength of this Union.”
The Union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar, established on April 26, 1964, was a historic move that created the modern United Republic of Tanzania. Over the decades, this unification has been credited with fostering national stability, economic growth, and political cohesion across the mainland and the islands.
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Khamis acknowledged the government is aware that some citizens—particularly the younger generation—lack proper education about the Union’s history, benefits, and constitutional basis.
“It’s true that some citizens haven’t been adequately reached with education on the Union,” he explained.
“That could be one reason why misinformation is spreading.”
The Deputy Minister added that state institutions will intensify efforts to provide accurate and accessible public education about the Union, aiming to fill knowledge gaps and combat false narratives shared on digital platforms.
Experts note that the spread of misleading content, often via social media, has contributed to growing misinformation about key national topics, including the Union and issues of decentralization and autonomy in Zanzibar.
Khamis emphasized that the government remains committed to preserving unity and ensuring every Tanzanian understands the importance of this historic bond between the mainland and the islands.
“We must remember that our strength lies in unity,” he said.
“It is this shared history that has made Tanzania what it is today.”
The government has also encouraged citizens to consult reliable resources, including historical archives and educational programs, to learn more about the founding of the Union and its significance in shaping the country’s identity.
