ADFD provides Dhs37 million to support Zanzibar healthcare sector

Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Zanzibar in the Federal Republic of Tanzania to provide Dhs37 million ($10 million) towards the development of Wete Hospital on Pemba Island in Zanzibar.

The MoU was signed by Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, ADFD Director General and Mohammed Ramia Abdiwawa, Minister of Finance and Planning in the region.

The project aims to support the healthcare sector, improve the efficiency of healthcare services and develop the capacities of local medical personnel. It will provide treatment and healthcare services to thousands of citizens on Pemba and surrounding islands in Zanzibar.

Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi said: “The MoU signed articulates the active role of the UAE and ADFD in promoting sustainable development. ADFD supports various development programmes prioritised by Zanzibar Government to improve the region’s healthcare sector and accelerate sustainable development.” He added: The Wete Hospital will be developed according to the highest international healthcare standards to ensure the delivery of necessary medical services to the people of Pemba in Zanzibar. The hospital will be provided with the latest medical equipment to contribute to improving the efficiency of healthcare and treatment services in the region.” For his part, Mohammed Ramia Abdiwawa, Minister of Finance and Planning in Zanzibar applauded the UAE’s continued support for sustainable economic development in Tanzania in general and Zanzibar in particular.

He said: “ADFD and the Government of Tanzania have built an excellent partnership over years. Through financing various strategic projects, ADFD plays a significant role in the sustainable development of Tanzania. The establishment of Wete Hospital on Pemba island will go a long way in the provision of high-quality medical treatment for the local population in the Zanzibar region. The establishment of such a healthcare facility will bring about significant advance in the healthcare sector and improve the lives of the people of Zanzibar.” He added: “Our government seeks to strengthen development cooperation with the UAE and Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) to boost economic growth, especially in sectors vital to sustainable development.” The outstanding relations between ADFD and the Government of Tanzania date back to 1977. Since then, the Fund has earmarked Dhs233 million towards the development of four projects serving key sectors including industry, transport and water.

In a bid to support the UAE’s national economy, Abu Dhabi Fund for Development has facilitated business deals worth Dhs16.5 billion for UAE companies over the last 10 years to implement ADFD-funded projects in developing countries.

Capitalising on its close relations with developing countries, the Fund has also invested in partnerships and initiatives to support national companies of the UAE and create investment opportunities in developing countries.

In line with the directives of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, and Chairman of ADFD’s Board of Directors, the Fund has amended its tendering system for projects financed by ADFD-managed government grants. Up to 10 per cent preference will be given to national companies that pass the technical assessment and financial qualification stage outlined in the Fund’s tender policy for grant projects.

Sheikh Mansour stressed that since its establishment by the founding father of the UAE, late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, ADFD has provided funding – including concessionary loans and Abu Dhabi government grants – to drive comprehensive development, assist developing countries in addressing economic challenges and improve the standard of living. He added that the Fund has financed hundreds of projects in multiple countries across the world in sectors ranging from infrastructure to health and education as well as renewable energy. These projects have had a significant positive impact on people’s lives.

He explained that ADFD implements its mandate of providing development aid based on its strategy and development programmes under the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.

The Chairman of ADFD’s Board of Directors noted that in addition to the significant role the Fund plays in achieving sustainable development in developing countries, ADFD also contributes to stimulating the UAE economy and enhancing its competitiveness within the outlined economic diversification strategy – a key pillar of the country’s policy.

WAM