Z’bar airports upgrades to boost tourism, economic growth

ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR President, Dr Hussein Mwinyi has said that the government is actively continuing with the construction and improvement of infrastructure at airports to ensure smooth operations that meet international standards.

President Mwinyi said with improved infrastructure, Zanzibar will attract more tourists, investors and other businesses, thus boosting the economic growth.

Speaking on Saturday during the launching of five infrastructure projects at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport as part of marking 61 years of Zanzibar revolution.

Dr Mwinyi said the government’s goal is to develop airports that provide exceptional services to passengers, effectively addressing the growing number of visitors arriving in the country daily.

He revealed that the five projects he recently launched will transform the airport into a point of pride and elevate its international status in Africa and globally by offering top-notch services that will be highly valued by travellers.

Among the projects Dr Mwinyi introduced are the foundation stones for the passenger terminals (Terminal One and Two), which will include the construction of a VIP facility for leaders and distinguished guests. This facility will also cater to prominent business figures arriving on private flights for high-profile events.

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Discussing the development of a modern business centre, Dr Mwinyi explained that the project will feature bank buildings, large international restaurants and offices providing 24-hour services to passengers and airport users.

Moreover, new airport lighting systems and a fuel station are part of the project. President Mwinyi said the fuel station would foster competition in fuel services for aircraft, offering more competitive pricing and reducing the need for planes to refuel outside Zanzibar.

Concerning Pemba Airport, he revealed that the government plans to expand the airport, extend the runway and elevate it into international status, which will further open up Pemba for business opportunities.

He added that Pemba will soon directly receive guests and tourists, eliminating the need for passengers to first land in Zanzibar and then transfer to Pemba. This development is closely aligned with the expansion of the ports in Mkoani, Wete and Shumba Mjini, aiming to enhance Pemba’s tourism, trade and investment prospects.

Furthermore, President Mwinyi expressed his satisfaction with the outstanding work being carried out by the Zanzibar Airports Authority (ZAA), particularly the improvements in operational performance focused on accountability and discipline. He also commended the tireless efforts of the authority’s staff in transforming the airport into a hub capable of welcoming even more visitors.

On the growth of tourism sector, President Mwinyi stated that nearly 2 million tourists visit Zanzibar each year, emphasising the need for the government to take special measures to improve airports with better infrastructure.

President Mwinyi promised the construction of large, high-standard hotels to attract more visitors, a move that will strengthen tourism and increase revenue from the vital economic sector.

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On his part, Minister for Construction, Communications and Transport, Dr Khalid Salum Mohamed, commended President Mwinyi for his wisdom and guidance, which have contributed to the significant development of airports in the country.

He also praised the President for the substantial work he is doing to bring progress to the people of Zanzibar.

Dr Mohamed commended the Zanzibar Airports Authority (ZAA) for its excellent work, which has earned the authority international recognition following improvements in operational performance and the delivery of high-quality services.

Meanwhile, Director-General of the Zanzibar Airports Authority (ZAA) Seif Abdalla Juma said the construction of the passenger terminals (Terminal One and Two) and the modern business centre is being funded by Zanzibar government.