Number of tourists from Brazil expected to increase

ZANZIBAR: THE arrival of 16 Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) from Brazilian tourism companies is expected to open doors for an influx of more tourists from the country and other Latin American nations visiting Zanzibar and Mainland Tanzania.

Speaking at a welcome reception for the Brazilian CEOs here in Zanzibar, organised by a local tourism company-Take a Trip, Honorary Consul General of Brazil in Zanzibar, Abdulsamad Abdulrahim, highlighted the significance of this visit.

He noted that it was the result of concerted efforts by President Samia Suluhu Hassan and President Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi to promote the country’s tourism internationally.

“This is a continuation of the fruits of the Royal Tour film initiated by President Samia and Dr Mwinyi,” said Mr Abdulrahim.

He also recalled that after the film’s release, a Tanzanian delegation of business and tourism stakeholders visited Brazil and participated in tourism exhibitions, further boosting Tanzania’s profile in the country.

Recently, a group of 37 investors from various sectors in Brazil visited Tanzania to explore potential investment opportunities, a move that also contributed to the country’s increased visibility in Brazil.

“We can expect more tourists and investors from Brazil in the near future,” said Mr Abdulrahim.

He added that the visiting CEOs will also help promote Tanzania in other Latin American countries and the United States.

In their initial feedback, the CEOs identified Zanzibar as a prime investment location for Brazilians.

“Brazilians previously had limited information about Zanzibar, often perceiving it through outdated political lenses of division, insecurity and conflict.

However, they have now witnessed first-hand the significant progress made, particularly in infrastructure development—such as airports, roads and tourist attractions,” Mr Abdulrahim explained.

He emphasised that the visiting CEOs, given Brazil’s large population will return home with positive reports about Zanzibar, which is expected to generate further interest and motivation for tourists to visit Tanzania.

Mr Abdulrahim urged Zanzibaris to seize this opportunity by welcoming the visitors warmly and establishing networks with stakeholders from Brazil and other countries to promote tourism and sectors of the blue economy.

Ms Rahma Sanya, Director of Marketing at the Zanzibar Tourism Commission (ZCT), expressed her office’s gratitude to Honorary Consul General Abdulrahim for facilitating the visit, which aims to forge stronger tourism connections between Brazil and Zanzibar.

“This is a significant step forward, considering that both Zanzibar and Brazil boast of unique attractions that set them apart from other destinations, drawing visitors from around the globe,” Ms Sanya said.

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Mr Moosa Tharia, Managing Director of Take A Trip Travel and Tours, expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to host the reception.

“Your unwavering commitment and tireless efforts in promoting Zanzibar to international markets such as Brazil are truly commendable,” he added, praising ZCT’s support.