ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR Second Vice-President Hemed Suleiman Abdulla has called on local leaders and stakeholders to embrace creativity and innovation to enhance tourist attractions in Zanzibar, emphasising that there is still much work to be done to boost the sector.
Mr Abdulla made the remarks during the ‘Mswahili wa Kipemba Cultural Festival’ in Pemba Island, an event designed to showcase traditional means of transport, such as donkey and bull carts, as well as traditional attire and local cuisine to attract more international tourists.
He stressed Zanzibar’s commitment to developing the tourism sector, noting that it plays a vital role in alleviating poverty, creating employment opportunities, generating foreign exchange and paving the way for a better future.
“We have wisely introduced initiatives that will promote Pemba Island to the world,” Mr Abdulla said. “Innovation drives economic growth through increased productivity, and by achieving this, we can enjoy higher standards and rapid development.”
Mr Abdulla directed the Ministry of Tourism and Heritage to enhance existing tourist attractions in Pemba Island to boost both individual and national income.
Opening the ‘Mswahili wa Kipemba Festival’ at the old House of Representatives building in Wete town, North Pemba, Mr Abdulla affirmed, “The eighth phase government, led by President Hussein Mwinyi, has committed to economically developing Pemba through various sectors, including tourism.”
He highlighted that culture, arts and historical sites, if well-researched and developed, have the potential to attract tourists from within Tanzania, the East African region, and beyond.
Mr Abdulla also addressed concerns about the delays in developing Pemba’s airport, assuring that the project, undertaken by PROPAV from Brazil, will soon commence. Once completed, it is expected to enhance tourism and economic growth by enabling direct international flights to Pemba.
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He instructed the Ministry of Tourism and Heritage to encourage visitors arriving in Unguja Island to also explore Pemba Island, thereby boosting tourism. He also urged hoteliers to promote local products and support local entrepreneurs.
Tourism and Heritage Minister Mr Mudrik Ramadhan Soraga stated that the ‘Mswahili wa Kipemba Festival’ aims to support President Mwinyi’s initiatives to develop Pemba through investment and tourism.
Soraga emphasised that Pemba Island is a strategic area in the tourism industry and called on all stakeholders to act as ambassadors for Pemba’s tourism opportunities, ensuring they gain national, regional and international recognition.
He also highlighted the festival’s goal to become an annual event that contributes to tourism development.
Zanzibar Tourism Board Chairman Brother Rahim Baloo added that the government aims to use traditional activities, such as food, sports and games, to further the development of tourism.
