Dr Mwinyi banks on ITOP Forum to promote tourism and Island people’s employment

SEOUL: ZANZIBAR President and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, has said the Island Tourism Policy Forum (ITOP) should strengthen cooperation, promote sustainable tourism and deliver practical outcomes that improve the livelihoods of people living in island communities.

Dr Mwinyi made the remarks today, October 28, 2026, during the ITOP Leaders’ Meeting held at Jeju Stone Park on Jeju Island, South Korea, where he outlined Zanzibar’s efforts to develop tourism and the blue economy for the benefit of its people while conserving the environment.

He stressed that tourism success should not be measured solely by an increase in tourist arrivals, but also by the sector’s ability to create jobs, expand local businesses, attract investment and ensure communities benefit from their natural resources.

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Dr Mwinyi further emphasised the importance of protecting the environment, as well as natural and cultural heritage, noting that sustainable tourism should deliver economic benefits while safeguarding the resources on which island communities depend.

He also invited all ITOP members to attend the 28th Island Tourism Policy Forum, scheduled to take place in Zanzibar in 2027, to promote the exchange of experiences and strengthen collective cooperation in developing sustainable island tourism.