Tourism operators raise concern over old Stone Town infrastructure

ZANZIBAR: TOURISM stakeholders, particularly hotel operators in Stone Town, have voiced concerns over outdated building infrastructure that they say hinders reliable communication with visitors.

Among them was Ms Khadija Suleiman Abdillah, Manager of Beit Al Salaam Hotel, who said that the thick stone walls of historical buildings pose significant challenges for mobile and internet connectivity.

She called on the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) to find lasting solutions.

The Regional Tourism Officer for Urban West, Mr Hassan Abas urged closer collaboration between tourism stakeholders and the communications regulator to develop guidelines that support effective service delivery in the sector.

Closing a three-day training session for tourism stakeholders in Zanzibar Town, TCRA engineer Christopher John said that improved communication systems would significantly enhance the tourism industry, which is a key driver of the national economy.

TCRA Zanzibar Office Manager, Esuvatie Masinga encouraged hotel owners to ensure quality communication services are available to meet the needs of their guests, particularly international tourists. He also emphasised the need for proper licensing, especially for users of two-way radios.

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Engineer Christopher Assenga from TCRA explained that the authority continues to regulate communication frequencies, including radio, TV and walkie-talkie services, to prevent interference that could disrupt communication networks.

The Southern Unguja Regional Tourism Officer, Mr Amour Mtumwa Ali said the meeting was crucial in addressing ongoing communication issues at hotels and strengthening tourism infrastructure.