Z’bar makes stride as best tourists’ destination – Mwinyi

ZANZIBAR: THE revolutionary government of Zanzibar remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing the infrastructure and regulatory frameworks that underpin the development of the tourism industry and investments.

The message was contained in the speech of President Hussein Mwinyi when officiating the opening of the second ‘Z-Summit, Zanzibar Tourism and Opportunities,’ where more than 100 participants have gathered.

“Ongoing initiatives aim at enhancing transportation networks, improving energy efficiency, and preserving our cultural and environmental assets, integral to our long-term vision for sustainable tourism development,” he explained.

The two-day summit was organised by the Zanzibar Association of Tourism Investors (ZATI) and Kili Fair, with Exim Bank Tanzania as the main sponsor.

Dr Mwinyi informed the participants of the two-day summit that the Isles’ new Investment Act 2024 has laid out attractive incentives and foundations for investors to take advantage of when considering Zanzibar as an investment option. He said,

“We are further actively investing in the development of new roads, improving electricity supply, advancing waste management initiatives, and undertaking the ambitious project of constructing a new airport in Pemba.

These endeavours are aimed at enhancing accessibility, connectivity, and the overall experience across our beautiful country.” In particular, Dr Mwinyi said that Zanzibar is proud of its efforts to safeguard heritage sites, including the iconic World Heritage Site of Stone Town, in accordance with the UNESCO Convention of 1972.

President Mwinyi said that through strategic initiatives and collaborative partnerships, the government remains dedicated to preserving the Isles’ cultural legacy for generations to come, while showcasing it to the world as one of the many attractions of Zanzibar.

He said that by formalising and regulating informal businesses, the government enhances accountability, improves service standards, and fosters a more sustainable tourism ecosystem that empowers local entrepreneurs and communities.

In pursuit of this and a more inclusive tourism, he said associations such as ZATI, Hotel Association of Zanzibar (HAZ), Zanzibar Association of Tour Operators (ZATO), and Zanzibar Tour Guide Association (ZATOGA) play an important role.

“Aligned with the government’s vision on tourism for all, these associations are vital in upholding standards of professionalism and quality service, ensuring that visitors to our country experience the hospitality and richness of our culture. “I am also pleased to share with you a significant development in our strategic investment focus. With unwavering confidence, we have identified Pemba as a catalyst for future economic growth and development in the region,” he said.

He said that the establishment of the Pemba Investment Zone (PIZ) marks a significant milestone, offering incentives to attract investors and stimulate economic activity in Zanzibar.

Dr Mwinyi said that last year’s launch of the Greener Zanzibar Initiative and the Zanzibar Sustainable Tourism Declaration underscore collective resolve to adopt environmentally responsible practices and mitigate the impact of tourism on our ecosystems.

He expressed his sincere gratitude to all participants for their invaluable contributions to the summit, “Together, let us chart a course toward a future filled with new partnerships, innovations, and opportunities that will shape the destiny of tourism in Zanzibar.” ZATI Chairman, Mr Rahim Bhaloo, and the KILIFAIR Director, Mr. Dominic Shoo, thanked Dr Mwinyi for his continued efforts in opening doors to improve the tourism sector.

The Minister of Tourism and Heritage, Mr Mudrick Ramadhan Soraga, said that the summit stands as a testament to the concerted efforts of the private sector in championing sustainability, diversity, and excellence in our tourism industry and the collaborative spirit and visionary initiatives that have propelled Zanzibar’s tourism industry to new heights of excellence and innovation.

“I am gratified to witness the dynamic evolution of our tourism sector, driven by the collaborative efforts between the government and the private sector,” he said as he extended his gratitude to the Z-Summit organizers: KILIFAIR, and ZATI, for their commitment to advancing the tourism sector for the second consecutive year.

Soraga said that by diversifying our portfolio, the government ensures that Zanzibar remains a destination of choice for a global audience seeking unique and enriching experiences.

He said that through collaborative endeavours and a shared vision, significant progress has been made in promoting a wide array of tourism experiences, including eco-tourism, cultural immersion, halal tourism, cruise tourism, sports tourism, and community-based initiatives embodying Zanzibar’s essence.