Zanzibar pushes to become East Africa’s next technology hub

Zanzibar is strengthening its push to become a technology and innovation hub in East Africa through a growing partnership with the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras), as the islands seek to expand digital skills, research and higher education. 

The move comes as African countries invest in technology, artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure to create new economic opportunities and prepare young people for jobs in a changing global economy. 

President Hussein Ali Mwinyi said the partnership with IIT Madras would help Zanzibar build local skills and encourage young people to use technology to solve social and economic challenges. 

“This cooperation will help build the capacity of our young people and enable them to use technology and innovation as tools for development,” Mwinyi said. 

The partnership follows IIT Madras’ decision to establish its first international campus in Zanzibar, supporting the government’s plan to position the islands as a centre for education, research and technology in Africa.

Zanzibar expands ties with India’s IIT Madras 

During his visit to IIT Madras, Mwinyi toured research centres, laboratories and innovation facilities focused on technology solutions in healthcare, science and industry.

IIT Madras Director Prof. Veezhinathan Kamakoti briefed the president on research programmes that connect students, academics, entrepreneurs and businesses to develop practical technology solutions. 

Mwinyi also visited the IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation, which works on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, communication systems, data science and advanced technologies.

He also toured facilities focused on medical research and traditional knowledge systems.

New training programme targets digital skills 

IIT Madras will launch a six-week international training programme in Zanzibar on Aug. 10, 2026, bringing together participants from Zanzibar and other countries. 

The programme will provide training in digital systems, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, auditing, control systems and financial management, areas that are becoming increasingly important for businesses and governments. 

Zanzibar officials said the initiative will support education, innovation and entrepreneurship while helping young people gain skills needed in the digital economy.

IIT Madras expands international footprint through Zanzibar 

Founded in 1959, IIT Madras is one of India’s leading engineering and research institutions, recognized for its work in science, technology, entrepreneurship and innovation.

Its Zanzibar campus represents the institution’s first international expansion. 

The partnership between Zanzibar and IIT Madras is expected to strengthen research, improve access to advanced training and support the islands’ ambition to become a regional destination for technology and higher education.