The Abu Dhabi Development Fund (ADFD) and the Government of Zanzibar in the Federal Republic of Tanzania have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to provide AED37 million (US$ 10 million) for the development of the Wete Hospital on Zanzibar's Pemba Island. The MoU was signed by the ADFD Director General, Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, and the region's Minister of Finance and Planning, Mohammed Ramia Abdiwawa.

The goal of the project is to support the healthcare sector, to increase the effectiveness of healthcare services and to strengthen the capacity of local medical staff. It will provide thousands of people on Pemba and nearby islands in Zanzibar with care and health services.

Mr. Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi said: "The MoU signed today articulates the UAE and ADFD's active role in supporting sustainable growth. ADFD supports the different development initiatives prioritized by the government of Zanzibar to strengthen the healthcare sector in the region and accelerate sustainable development."

"The Wete Hospital will be constructed according to the highest international health standards to ensure the delivery of the necessary medical services to the people of Pemba in Zanzibar. The hospital will be provided with the latest medical equipment to help enhance the efficacy of the region's healthcare and recovery facilities", he added.

For his part, the Zanzibar Minister of Finance and Planning, Mr. Mohammed Ramia Abdiwawa, applauded the continued support of the UAE for sustainable economic growth in Tanzania in general and in Zanzibar in particular.

He said, "ADFD and the government of Tanzania have built an exemplary relationship over the years. Through funding various strategic projects, ADFD plays an important role in the sustainable development of Tanzania. In providing high-quality medical care for the local population in the Zanzibar region, the establishment of Wete Hospital on Pemba island will go a long way. The construction of such a healthcare facility would make substantial change in the healthcare industry and will improve the lives of the people of Zanzibar.”

“Our government seeks to strengthen development cooperation with the UAE and the Abu Dhabi Development Fund (ADFD) in order to boost economic growth, especially in sectors that are vital to sustainable development”, he added.

The outstanding partnership between ADFD and the government of Tanzania dates back to 1977. Since then, the Fund has allocated AED233 million to the construction of four projects serving key industries, including industry, transport and water.