MWE Correspondent
Residents of Wete District in Pemba have called on members of the Zanzibar House of Representatives to prioritise the interests of citizens when debating and passing various bills.
The residents made the appeal during a meeting with a team of legislators visiting Botol, Mtemani and Wete Njia Nne as part of an ongoing public consultation tour aimed at gathering citizens’ views and addressing their concerns. The delegation was led by ACT-Wazalendo Chief Whip in the House of Representatives, Prof. Omar Fakih Hamad.
Speaking during the meeting, Sheha Abdalla Juma said the Fisheries Act No. 7 of 2010 had created difficulties for small-scale fishermen because it restricts fishing in shallow waters.
He said the law requires fishermen to operate in deeper waters, approximately 50 metres from the shore, yet many small-scale fishermen lack modern equipment needed to reach and operate safely in such areas.
“Those 50 metres are restricted, and we are prohibited from using fishing equipment, including gas cylinders and goggles. What are we supposed to do?” Sheha Abdalla asked.
He urged authorities to review the legislation and make it more supportive of fishermen rather than imposing difficulties on them.
Another resident, Bakari Khamis Ali, called on the government to provide fishermen with boats, fishing vessels, nets and modern equipment so they can operate in deeper waters if fishing in shallow areas remains prohibited.
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“Makes laws with the understanding that Zanzibaris value peace and are not prepared to conflict with their government,” he said.
Residents also raised concerns over social welfare. Said Ali Mohammed urged lawmakers to advocate for an increase in monthly allowances for elderly citizens from Sh50,000 to Sh150,000, saying the higher amount would help older people feel valued by their country.
Seif Mohamed Said said many retirees wait for long periods to receive their benefits, with some dying before receiving what they are legally entitled to.
Juma Shaame Maalim called for the construction of Wete Port, arguing that the project would boost trade and attract more investors to Pemba.
Meanwhile, Makame Ali Makame raised concerns over the proposed Newspapers Corporation Bill, calling for government-owned media outlets to provide equal opportunities to all political parties.
Residents also complained about alleged discrimination in employment. Mariam Haji Khamis claimed that people perceived to support opposition parties sometimes struggle to secure employment despite having the required qualifications.
Issa Rubea Mohammed said political and geographical discrimination between Pemba and Unguja was still evident in employment processes.
Responding to the residents, Prof. Omar Fakih Hamad said they would continue urging the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar to pursue economic development policies that benefit all citizens.
Mtambwe constituency representative Dr Muhammed Ali Suleiman said all issues raised, including concerns over the fisheries law, had been received and would be presented during the House of Representatives session scheduled to begin on September 9, 2026.
Gando constituency representative Said Ali Mbarouk said fishing remained among the major challenges requiring policy and legal reforms, pledging to continue pressing the government to ensure fisheries laws become more favourable to fishermen.
