Unguja. Tanzania Social Action Fund (Tasaf) has announced the completion of Sh277 million worth of renovations of the secondary and primary schools at Kizimkazi, located in the South Unguja region.
The renovations according to Tasaf included also the improvements to teachers’ offices, laboratories, and the construction of 14 toilets, as well as a meeting hall.
The school are expected to be opened officially by the President Samia Suluhu Hassan today as as part of the Kizimkazi Festival celebrations.
The festival was officially established in August 2015 under the name “Samia Day” before being renamed in 2018 to “Kizimkazi Day.” Its purpose is to promote the culture, attractions, and resources of Kizimkazi and is held every August.
The Permanent Secretary- Office of the Second Vice President, Dr Islam Seif Salum, said that the only tasks remained are the installation of sitting desks and chairs in some classrooms.
“We are eagerly awaiting the Kizimkazi Festival to showcase our progress. Tasaf not only supports poor households but is also involved in improving school and hospital infrastructure,” said Dr Salum.
Tasaf acting director Shadrack Mziray stated that the institution carries out its duties on the mainland and in the islands, highlighting the progress made in the renovation of Kizimkazi School. He mentioned that the project was expected to take a year but was completed in six months.
“When people think of Tasaf, they often associate it with empowering poor households through grants. However, we also carry out temporary employment and infrastructure improvement projects,” said Mr Mziray.
The director responsible for coordination of from the Office of the Second Vice President of Zanzibar, Siajabu Suleiman Pandu, emphasized the significant transformation of Kizimkazi School’s appearance following extensive infrastructure improvements.
“We are grateful to Tasaf for providing timely funding for this project. The remaining steps include minor procedures, including cleaning, before our leader (President Hassan) comes to visit. Citizens should remain patient and await our mother’s (President Hassan) blessing for this event,” Pandu said.