ZANZIBAR, April 26 -- AS the nation marks 62 years of the Union, significant progress has been recorded in resolving longstanding challenges, with the number of Union issues steadily declining as efforts continue to strengthen cooperation between Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.

Minister of State in the Vice-Presidents Office (Union and Environment), Engineer Hamad Yussuf Masauni, said the Union remains a key pillar for national development, opening up opportunities across sectors such as the blue economy, digital technology, agriculture, tourism and trade.

He said the number of longstanding Union issues, once standing at 25, has been significantly reduced, with only a few remaining as both sides continue to work towards their resolution...