Zanzibar VP calls for unity among Africa’s social security funds

Arusha. Zanzibar’s First Vice President, Othman Masoud Othman, has called for greater unity and collaboration among social security funds across Africa, highlighting their vital role in advancing the continent’s development agenda.

Mr Othman made the remarks on Friday, July 11, 2025, during the closing ceremony of the 14th International Conference of Social Security Policy Makers in Africa, held at the Arusha International Conference Centre (AICC).

Speaking on behalf of Zanzibar President, Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, Mr Othman urged African nations to fully utilise social security institutions as platforms for regional integration and inclusive growth.

He emphasised the need for coordinated efforts, robust policy frameworks, and enhanced knowledge-sharing to improve the management and sustainability of social protection systems.

“I hope that member states of the African Social Security Association (ASSA) will support these efforts by addressing challenges that hinder the effective implementation of social security goals for Africa’s development,” he said.

Mr Othman also encouraged policymakers to embrace the principles of transparency, accountability, and integrity, describing them as essential to maintaining the credibility of the sector and accelerating progress.

Tanzania’s Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Labour, Youth, Employment, and Persons with Disabilities), Mr Ridhiwani Kikwete, echoed similar sentiments, commending social security institutions for laying the groundwork for sustainable development across the continent.

In her contribution, Zanzibar’s Minister of State in the President’s Office (Finance and Planning), Dr Saada Mkuya Salum, underscored the potential of social security funds to contribute to economic growth through strategic investments in infrastructure and programmes aimed at improving living standards.

The conference concluded with Tanzania assuming the chairmanship of ASSA, under the leadership of the Zanzibar Social Security Fund (ZSSF) Managing Director, Mr Nassor Shaaban Ameir.

The two-day event attracted ministers and senior officials from across the continent and beyond, including delegates from Kenya, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, Zimbabwe, the Comoros, South Africa, Namibia, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Burundi, and South Sudan.

In addition to high-level policy discussions, the conference featured cultural performances and an awards ceremony.

It was also attended by regional leaders from Arusha and security officials led by Longido District Commissioner, Mr Salum Kaali.