The President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, Hon. Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi has said there is a need to encourage youth to learn more about astronomy, space science and technology in order to build their knowledge and ability to use the opportunities that arise in these sectors for the development of Zanzibar.
President Dr. Mwinyi said this, on September 21, 2026, at the State House in Zanzibar, when he met with the leadership of the Zanzibar Astronomy Space Society (ZASS), an institution involved in astronomy and space science in Zanzibar.
President Dr. Mwinyi said astronomy, science and technology education plays an important role in preparing youth to keep up with the pace of technological change and build their ability to use that knowledge in various areas of development.
Dr. Mwinyi said it is important to increase the understanding of youth and society about space issues by giving them opportunities to learn, conduct research, participate in space exploration activities and build experience in the use of modern technologies.
He explained that collaboration between the Government, educational institutions and science and technology stakeholders can help increase enthusiasm among young people and open up more opportunities in research, innovation and the use of space-related technologies.
President Dr. Mwinyi commended ZASS for its efforts to promote astronomy and space science, especially among young people, and explained the importance of continuing to build collaboration that will help increase understanding and knowledge in these fields.
During the conversation, President Dr. Mwinyi was presented with various astronomical images taken from Zanzibar by the Association, showing some of the shapes and landscapes of the deep sky, as part of the institution’s activities in space exploration and photography.
Mr. Abuubakar Harith, Spokesperson for ZASS, said the use of satellites can make a significant contribution to research and the acquisition of information that can support Zanzibar’s development plans.
He said these technologies can be used in the collection and analysis of information relating to the ocean, the environment and various changes occurring in the world.
