Zanzibar Startup Association at CSO Week 2025

Theme: Pathways to Progress

Date: 2nd–6th June 2025

Zanzibar Startup Association (ZSA) had the privilege of representing Zanzibar’s vibrant and emerging startup ecosystem at

CSO Week 2025, Tanzania’s premier civil society platform. Held under the powerful theme “Pathways to Progress,” this year’s event brought together changemakers from civil society, public institutions, startups, youth organizations, and development partners to explore sustainable, inclusive solutions for Tanzania’s development.

Throughout the week, ZSA participated in high-level discussions, hands-on workshops, and strategic networking engagements. We shared the unique challenges and opportunities facing Zanzibar’s startup community, especially young entrepreneurs, and emphasized how innovation can align with social impact. We also highlighted the need for more inclusive policies, local capacity building, and deeper collaboration between CSOs and startup enablers.

Our participation reaffirmed that startups are not just economic drivers — they are critical actors in civic transformation. CSO Week offered us a platform to advocate for stronger partnerships that bridge innovation and grassroots impact, especially in underrepresented regions like Zanzibar.

As we move forward, ZSA remains committed to walking alongside civil society in co-creating pathways that support youth-led innovation, entrepreneurship, and long-term social progress.