Kizimkazi Festival postponed over lack of development projects

Unguja. The much-anticipated Kizimkazi Festival has been postponed this year due to the absence of development projects that were scheduled to be inaugurated during the event, organisers have announced.

Originally set for eight days from July 19 to 26 at the Sports Suluhu Academy grounds in Kizimkazi, the 10th edition of the festival has now been pushed to next year.

Speaking to journalists in Kizimkazi, South Unguja, the festival’s chairperson, Mr Mahfoudh Said Omar, said the event’s primary purpose is to promote community development through the launch of new projects.

“This year, we unfortunately do not have any development projects ready for inauguration, so we’ve had to postpone the festival until further notice, likely next year,” said Mr Omar.

Since its inception in 2015 as a local event at the shehia (ward) level, the Kizimkazi Festival has grown to national prominence. It has served as a platform to launch key community projects, including new schools, health centres, and entrepreneurship initiatives.

The 2025 edition had been planned around seven key sectors—fisheries, agriculture, livestock, tourism, education, water, and children’s recreation facilities—with a focus on empowering residents and boosting local businesses.

Beyond development, the festival also aims to unite the people of Kizimkazi, preserve local traditions and culture, and showcase investment opportunities in the region.

The festival’s postponement is seen as a setback not only for sponsors and organisers but also for residents who rely on the event for economic opportunities and entertainment.

“The excitement we’re used to will be missing this year. It’s a loss for all of us, but there’s nothing we can do except plan for the next edition,” Mr Omar said.

Among projects that had been slated for inauguration but remain incomplete are a modern football pitch at Suluhu Academy, a children’s recreational park, a water supply project, and new offices for local branches of the ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM). However, organisers declined to disclose the costs involved in these projects.

For many local traders and residents, the cancellation is a major blow.

The Sheha (ward leader) of Kizimkazi Mkunguni, Mwachumu Ali Shaka, said people had already invested time and resources in preparing for business opportunities linked to the festival.