This Act consisting of 35 articles aims to support the growth and sustainability of Micro, Small, and Medium Industries in Zanzibar by providing necessary resources, guidance, and financial assistance through the establishment, under Article 4, of the Zanzibar Micro, Small and Medium Industrial Development Agency (SMIDA). The Agency's key functions include (i) developing and implementing support programs for Micro, Small, and Medium Industries; (ii) encouraging the establishment and expansion of such industries; (iii) providing advisory and coordination services, along with monitoring and evaluation; (iv) managing accessible credit schemes and other financial services; (v) advising the Government on advancing industrial programs; (vi) conducting market research; (vii) promoting balanced regional development by leveraging local resources; (viii) offering technical assistance to enhance competitiveness and technical services through workshops; (ix) advocating for training opportunities in these industries; (x) improving product standards through technology transfer and innovation; (xi) assisting in equipment acquisition for enterprises; (xii) facilitating market access; (xiii) coordinating public and private sector activities; (xiv) recommending incentives for industry development. The President-appointed Director General of the Agency is entrusted with overseeing its daily operations, devising strategies to promote industrial entrepreneurship, coordinating training programs, securing resources for industrial development, and addressing impediments to the progress of Micro, Small, and Medium Industries with the Board's approval. The Board of Directors plays a pivotal role in supervising Agency operations and ensuring adherence to approved budgets, as outlined in the Act, which mandates the annual budget approval and submission of supplementary budgets. Additionally, Article 24 establishes the Micro, Small, and Medium Industrial Development Fund, subject to the finance minister's approval, to support sectoral growth. A schedule detailing Board proceedings is included.
Zanzibar (United Republic of Tanzania) · 2017-12-07