Isles extends health insurance to tourists
ZANZIBAR: PRESIDENT Hussein Mwinyi said on Thursday that the newly introduced tourist health insurance that offers multiple benefits is set to enhance the tourism sector, ensure safer and welcoming environment for visitors to the isles.
Speaking to the new Italian Ambassador to Tanzania, Giuseppe Sean Coppola at Zanzibar State House, President Mwinyi said the health insurance that costs only 44 US dollars has become mandatory for all visitors in the isles from September 1st this year.
He said the move aims at improving travelling experience in the islands.
He said the fee is intended to enhance visitor services by providing coverage for health issues, lost baggage, accidents, emergency evacuations, passport loss and even repatriation in the event of death.
President Mwinyi emphasised that health insurance for tourists is not a new concept; many countries already offer similar services, which help to build tourist confidence in accessing quality healthcare.
He added that the government has incurred substantial costs for treating foreign visitors who fall ill, experience accidents or face other emergencies.
“The introduction of this insurance will help to reduce some of financial burden,” he said.
However, some tour operators have expressed concerns that the fee may be an added burden for their customers.
President Mwinyi commended the existing cooperation between Zanzibar and Italy and asked the country to support the isles in various areas, particularly the waste management sector.
Regarding tourist arrivals, Dr Mwinyi described Italy as “a major stakeholder in the development of Zanzibar’s tourism,” highlighting the significant number of visitors from Italy.
He invited more Italian investors to consider opportunities in Zanzibar.
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Regarding tourist arrivals, Dr Mwinyi said Italy is a major stakeholder in the development of Zanzibar’s tourism, noting the significant number of visitors from Italy.
He invited more Italian investors to explore opportunities in Zanzibar.
Ambassador Coppola assured the President of continued collaboration in areas such as health, tourism, waste management and the Blue Economy agenda.
He also pledged to enhance cooperation in addressing Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) on Pemba Island, as well as improving maternal and child health.
