Zanzibar targets to become model for island economies
ZANZIBAR: PRESIDENT Dr Hussein Mwinyi has said that Zanzibar has the potential to serve as a model for other island economies globally by aligning its efforts with international sustainability goals.
Dr Mwinyi said this during the opening of the two-day Zanzibar International Tourism and Investment Show (ZITIS) at the Nyamanzi International Exhibition Area in Unguja West B District.
“We are at a pivotal moment in our development journey. The investments we attract today will shape the Zanzibar of tomorrow. As we look ahead, we must position ourselves not just as a destination, but as a hub for innovative and sustainable investment,” he said.
The president emphasised that infrastructure development, renewable energy projects, hospitality ventures, and cultural heritage initiatives are all essential to this transformation.
He reaffirmed the Zanzibar government’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment by streamlining processes, strengthening regulatory frameworks and offering incentives to attract responsible investment.
“I take this opportunity to reaffirm that Zanzibar is open for business and ready to welcome partners who share our vision of sustainable growth and long-term prosperity,” Dr Mwinyi said, describing the event as a demonstration of the value of collaboration.
ZITIS was organised by the Zanzibar Ministry of Tourism and Heritage, the Commission for Tourism Zanzibar and the private sector Dr Mwinyi commended this collaboration as vital for strengthening public-private partnerships (PPP).
“PPP is essential for achieving our shared objectives. Through cooperation and dialogue, we can align public policies with private-sector innovation to build a resilient and inclusive tourism economy,” he explained, envisioning this show as an annual tradition that will grow in scope and influence each year.
Dr Mwinyi called for collective efforts to make the Zanzibar Tourism and Investment Show a premier event not only in East Africa but also on the international stage.
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“With greater participation from global stakeholders, we can position Zanzibar as a leader in tourism and investment excellence, highlighting our unique strengths and competitive advantages,” he stated.
He said that tourism and investment are not just abstract concepts but are vital for livelihoods, education, and the preservation of cultural identity—key aspects of Zanzibar’s aspirations.
He insisted that the benefits of tourism and investment must reach every corner of the islands, empowering local communities and creating opportunities for all.
However, he cautioned, “As we pursue economic growth, we must remain steadfast in our commitment to environmental conservation.”
“Our forests, coral reefs, and wildlife are treasures that we must protect. Initiatives such as marine conservation areas, sustainable fishing practices, and eco-tourism ventures demonstrate our dedication to preserving our ecosystems for future generations,” Dr Mwinyi added.
The show features exhibitions, panel discussions, and networking sessions, Minister of Tourism and Heritage, Mr Mudrik Ramadhan Soraga described the gathering as an extraordinary event designed not only to celebrate tourism and investment but also to create new opportunities and forge strategic partnerships for Zanzibar’s future as a leader in sustainable tourism and cultural preservation.
He noted that tourism is the lifeblood of Zanzibar’s economy, significantly contributing to employment and foreign exchange earnings.
“Our aim today is not merely to promote Zanzibar as a beautiful destination but to position it as a dynamic and responsible market for investment. We envision a future where sustainable tourism development is at the core of our economic agenda—a future where tourism enriches both the visitor experience and the lives of the people of Zanzibar,” Mr Soraga said.
The Executive Secretary of the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism, Mr Arif Abbas Manji, stated that the Zanzibar Tourism and Investment Show 2024 is a groundbreaking event with great significance for the future of tourism and investment in the archipelago.
He said that the show was created to align tourism and investment as complementary sectors to drive Zanzibar’s economic growth, attracting 110 exhibitors and 70 international buyers from countries including Kenya, Uganda, Egypt, the United Kingdom, Jordan, the USA, South Africa, the UAE and Nigeria.
“From 2021 to 2024, 162 tourism-related investments have been made, totaling 1,911,184,038 US dollars (over 5.2tri/-), creating 9,535 jobs for the people of Zanzibar,” Mr Manji reported.
He also noted that Zanzibar has leased 16 small islets for hotel investments worth over 385 million US dollars.
“These remarkable achievements further highlight the importance of events like this in fostering economic growth and creating opportunities for local communities.”
