ZSTHS urges tour guides to observe code of conduct

ZANZIBAR: TOUR guides in Zanzibar have been urged to learn and adhere to the code of conduct governing their profession to become effective ambassadors for the country’s tourism sector.

The Director of the Department of Tourism in the Ministry of Tourism and Heritage, Dr Abdalla Mohammed Juma emphasized the importance of professionalism at a ceremony awarding certificates to graduates of the ‘Tourism and Hospitality’ program at the Tourism College – State University of Zanzibar (SUZA), Maruhubi.

“Return to class or spend some time refreshing your knowledge of the code of conduct.

This will help you show respect to tourists, provide accurate information, and offer the hospitality that visitors expect,” Dr. Juma advised.

He cautioned tour guides against humiliating visitors or providing incorrect information.

“Tourists often research their destinations before arriving in Tanzania. It is crucial to offer them truthful and reliable information,” he added.

Dr. Juma also stressed the importance of presentation, urging tour guides to dress well, use friendly language, be punctual, reliable, and honest, as outlined in the code of conduct.

He highlighted challenges facing the tourism sector, noting discrepancies in historical information about Stone Town.

“It is alarming that each tour guide seems to have their own version of the history of Stone Town. Tourists, who are well-informed, may remain silent when misled, but this harms our tourism industry,” Dr. Juma explained.

To address these issues, the Ministry is collaborating with the Zanzibar Association of Tourism Operators (ZATO) and the Zanzibar Tour Guide Association (ZATOGA) to develop a special curriculum for new entrants into the tourism industry.

This initiative aims to ensure that all tour guides receive consistent and accurate training.

Dr. Juma praised the Zanzibar Stone Town Heritage Society (ZSTHS) for organizing the training, which aligns with the ministry’s strategy to encourage private institutions to work with the government in developing the tourism sector.

Mr. Makame Juma Mtwana from ZSTHS reported that the training, which included 20 students (14 men and 6 women), was sponsored by the International Trust Organization with funding from the British Council.

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This program is part of broader efforts to empower young people and entrepreneurs in developmental activities.

ZSTHS Chairperson Dr. Mariam Jaffar Ismail encouraged graduates to continue seeking opportunities to expand their knowledge.

“Learning and staying updated on accurate historical information is a continuous process,” she said.

Dr. Khamis Haji Salum, representing SUZA, commended ZSTHS for providing this vital education for the future of the tourism industry.

On behalf of her fellow graduates, Ms. Asiya Subeha expressed gratitude to ZSTHS, SUZA, and the Ministry of Tourism and Heritage for the program.

She promised to adhere to the code of conduct and apply the knowledge gained in their careers as tour guides.