EU Launches Green and Smart Cities SASA Programme in Pemba, Zanzibar

The European Union (EU) and the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar have officially launched the Green and Smart Cities SASA Programme in Pemba. The TZS 190 billion (EUR 75 million) programme, funded by the EU, is part of the broader Team Europe Initiative, which also includes member states and their institutions. The programme aims to boost green infrastructure investments and stimulate local economic growth across Mwanza, Tanga, and Pemba.

The launch ceremony took place in Pemba, with Zanzibar's Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation, Natural Resource and Livestock, Mr. Shamata Shaame Khamis, and EU Ambassador to Tanzania, Ms. Christine Grau, in attendance.

The event was also graced by senior government officials from various ministries, including the main partner ministry, the President's Office for Regional Administration and Local Government (PORALG), as well as local authorities.

In Pemba, the Green and Smart Cities SASA Programme focuses on three key projects-KIJANI PEMBA, PURE, and INCLU-CITIES. These projects, with a combined budget of TZS 17.5 billion (EUR 6 million) are being implemented by the NGOs LVIA and OIKOS, alongside the Belgian development agency ENABEL.

The projects aim to enhance urban infrastructure, improve basic services such as water and waste management, and create economic opportunities for youth, women, and small businesses in sectors like seaweed farming and waste recycling.

"I am very happy to officially celebrate with you all the start of these initiatives and reaffirm our commitment to achieving tangible results soon. We aim to improve the work of your institutions, the environment where you live, and the lives of your families, children, youth, and women," said Ambassador Grau.

"In one or two years, we expect to see schools with better conditions for your children, communities with improved public spaces, less waste, better water supply and sanitation, reduced flooding, and safer, more efficient markets." she added

The projects under this programme will support the development of urban infrastructure, including schools, markets, and public spaces, while also enhancing essential services like water supply and waste management in selected urban areas of North and South Pemba. Additionally, the initiative will help create economic opportunities in key sectors, empowering local communities, especially youth and women.

As part of the launch activities, Ambassador Grau visited several EU-supported sites across Pemba, including schools, training and processing facilities, and the Ngezi forest reserve. These visits were an opportunity for the Ambassador to witness firsthand the positive impacts of EU-funded projects on local communities.

Additionally, Ambassador Grau also met with Members of Parliament from the region, civil society representatives, NGOs, religious leaders, and the private sector to discuss the EU's partnership with Tanzania and Zanzibar and explore opportunities for further collaboration.