Several representatives yesterday raised various questions on whether Zanzibari’s stand to benefit from the Oil and Natural Gas exploration as a nation and if it was well prepared for the forthcoming economic development projects.

While voicing their doubts in the ongoing representatives’ session, the house members also appealed to the government to be extra careful in revenue collection and distribution. They were debating the Oil and Gas Bill before endorsing it.

Backbenchers in the House urged the government to educate the public on the new developments as the expected Natural gas and Oil will change development pace in the isles as it was likely to take Island’s economy to a medium level.

The government cleared all the doubts raised in the house through its ministers who responded intelligently and transparently that the exploration of natural gas and oil was a great blessing for Zanzibari’s and undoubtedly will further improve their livelihoods.

Ministers who responded to the questions included Mr Mohamed Aboud Mohamed (State Minister), Mr Said Soud Said (Without portfolio), Mr Juma Ali Khatib (Without portfolio), Dr Khalid Salum Mohamed (Finance) and Mr Said Hassan said (Attorney General) and Ms Maudline Cyrus Castico (Women and Children affairs) lined-up to clear doubts raised by the backbenchers.

The ministers asked backbenchers and members of the public to clear doubts about the exploration, ownership, environment, and revenue as the Finance Minister promised that all precautions have been taken to ensure Oil and gas benefits Zanzibari’s.

“Let us hope for bright future. United Nations convention of the law of the sea identifies our boundary and the Union government recognizes the boundaries,” said Dr Mohamed.

Source: allAfrica