Engaging stakeholders through conferences, workshops, and policy dialogues to drive development forward
4th ZRCP Joint Annual High-Level Conference
The conference titled “Investing in Human Capital for Workforce Competitiveness and Innovation,” at Hotel Verde, Mtoni Zanzibar, zeroed in on the urgent need to address the relatively high youth unemployment rate and the prevailing skills gap. The event was officially opened by Honourable Hemed Suleiman Abdulla, the Second Vice President, successfully brought together a formidable coalition. This included senior officials from key entities like the President’s Office Constitution, Legal Affairs, Public Service & Good Governance, President’s Office Finance & Planning, Legal Affairs, Civil Services and Good Governance, Office of Chief Government Statistician, Zanzibar Planning Commission, and the Presidential Delivery Bureau, alongside the private sector, development partners such as the Embassy of Switzerland, the Embassy of the Netherlands, UNCDF, UNDP, Tony Blair’s Institute, GIZ, as well as leading academic institutions and youth organizations.
Early Childhood Development (ECD) Interactive Workshop
Kick-started our partnership with New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) and SUMOOD in the early childhood development field. This 3-day interactive workshop at Madinatul al Bahr Hotel assessed the current state of ECD in Zanzibar, setting the trajectory for our forthcoming research project. The collaborative sessions brought together local actors to identify challenges and opportunities in ECD provision.
Digital Diagnosis of Social Protection Sector
Collaborated with Zanzibar e-Government Authority (eGA) and Oxford Policy Management (OPM) to conduct a comprehensive digital diagnosis workshop of Zanzibar’s social protection sector. The workshop at Golden Tulip Hotel focused on identifying digital transformation opportunities to enhance social protection services and systems across the islands.
3rd Annual Development Conference: Enhancing Technology and Innovation
Hosted the prestigious 3rd Annual Development Conference with the theme “Enhancing Technology and Innovation for Catalysing a Vibrant Startup Ecosystem in Zanzibar”. The event was officiated by the President of the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar and closed by the Second Vice President. The conference brought together entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers to shape Zanzibar’s startup landscape.
High Level Conference on Zanzibar Digital Transformation
Organized a high-level conference on Zanzibar’s digital transformation journey, officiated by the Minister of Infrastructure, Communication and Transport. The event attracted diverse stakeholders including the Director General of Tanzania Communication Regulatory Authority (TCRA). Discussions centered on digital infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and implementation strategies for Zanzibar’s digital future.
2nd Joint Annual Policy Conference: Digital Transformation & Innovative Financing
Hosted the 2nd Joint Annual Policy Conference focusing on “Digital Transformation and Innovative Financing as catalysts for accelerating economic growth”. The event was organized in collaboration with the President’s Office – Finance and Planning, UNCDF, Zanzibar Investment Promotion Authority (ZIPA), People’s Bank of Zanzibar (PBZ), and Office of the Chief Government Statistician (OCGS).
High-Level Policy Dialogue on Universal Health Insurance
Convened a high-level policy dialogue on Universal Health Insurance with key stakeholders including the President’s Office, the Swiss Embassy, and the Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete Foundation. The dialogue explored sustainable health financing models and pathways toward achieving universal health coverage in Zanzibar, drawing on international best practices and local context.
Strategic Research Presentations to Inter-Ministerial Technical Committee
Regularly presenting strategic research findings to the Inter-Ministerial Technical Committee (IMTC), engaging key government leadership across multiple sectors. These presentations facilitate evidence-based policymaking and ensure our research directly informs government planning and decision-making processes at the highest levels.
ICT and Digital Upskilling Seminar with IIT Madras
Collaborated with the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras and UNCDF to host a specialized seminar on ICT and digital upskilling. The event brought together leaders from government, academia, and industry to explore capacity building strategies and digital skills development essential for Zanzibar’s technological advancement.
Policy Dialogue Series with African Urban Lab
Hosted a series of policy dialogues with African Urban Lab (AUL) at ZRCP offices, focusing on urban development challenges and sustainable solutions. These intimate discussions brought together experts and practitioners to explore innovative approaches to urban planning, infrastructure development, and sustainable city growth in the Zanzibar context.

