Zanzibar's First Lady and Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the Zanzibar Maisha Bora Foundation (ZMBF), Mariam H. Mwinyi, emphasized Zanzibar's significant contributions to the development of literature and culture. Her remarks were made during the officiating of the Sharjah Festival of African Literature and Arts (SFAL 2026) in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, where she highlighted the island's long-standing history as a central hub for cultural exchange.

Mrs. Mwinyi elaborated on how Zanzibar's unique heritage was meticulously shaped over centuries through continuous interaction facilitated by monsoon trade routes. These crucial routes historically connected Africa, the Arab world, the Indian subcontinent, and the Far East, creating a rich tapestry of diverse influences. She further noted that Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, serves as a testament to this legacy, embodying the concept of "Living Heritage" through the daily lives and traditions of its people.

Beyond historical acknowledgment, the First Lady reaffirmed the steadfast commitment of Zanzibar's President, Hussein Ali Mwinyi, to the dedicated safeguarding and proactive promotion of cultural heritage. This commitment is seen as a foundational pillar for establishing national identity, fostering sustainable tourism, and driving inclusive development. Mrs. Mwinyi underscored that culture and heritage are not merely static historical assets but dynamic and indispensable resources for future growth and prosperity.

As a tangible illustration of this principle, Mrs. Mwinyi cited seaweed farming as an intangible heritage that actively empowers coastal women and youth. Through initiatives focused on value addition, capacity building, and improved market access, more than 1,200 women and youth from Unguja and Pemba have directly benefited from this traditional practice, showcasing its profound socio-economic impact.

In her address, the First Lady also extended her commendation to the Sharjah Book Authority, under the distinguished leadership of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, for organizing SFAL 2026. She recognized the festival as a vital platform for strengthening cultural cooperation, particularly between African and Arab nations, and across the broader Indian Ocean region. Zanzibar's vibrant cultural presence at the festival was marked by a special ZMBF delegation, alongside various artists and creatives, who proudly showcased a diverse range of Zanzibari cultural works, including traditional handicrafts, intricate Zanzibari door carvings, and various forms of book writing and storytelling.