Said: Zanzibar is working to rebrand the tourism sector

Zanzibar, a popular tourism destination in East Africa, faced significant challenges due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the tourism sector. The Minister of Tourism and Heritage in Zanzibar, Simei Mohammed Said, recently provided insights into the recovery efforts and the strategic initiatives being implemented to rebrand and sustain the tourism industry on the island. Zanzibar, known for its pristine beaches and rich cultural heritage, has traditionally attracted a large number of international travelers, particularly from Europe and Asia. However, with the onset of the pandemic, the number of visitors plummeted, causing a sharp decline in tourism revenues. Minister Said highlighted that the sector is now on a recovery path, with current visitor numbers standing at around 350,000, a significant improvement from the low point during the peak of the pandemic. One key focus for Zanzibar is rebranding the destination to attract a diverse range of travelers beyond just beach enthusiasts. Minister Said emphasized the importance of showcasing Zanzibar as a unique and multifaceted destination that offers enriching experiences for travelers looking for something distinctive. By diversifying the tourism offerings and promoting sustainability, Zanzibar aims to attract a broader audience and enhance the overall visitor experience. Tourism plays a pivotal role in Zanzibar's economy, accounting for approximately 25% of the GDP and up to 80% of foreign exchange earnings. To expedite the recovery process, several strategic initiatives have been launched, including the privatization of heritage sites such as the Stone Town of Zanzibar. By leveraging public-private partnerships and investing in infrastructure development, Zanzibar aims to enhance its tourism offerings and ensure a seamless experience for visitors. The government has also made significant investments in tourism projects, with over $1.4 billion USD injected into various initiatives between November 2020 and May 2022. These projects encompass the development of new hotels, improvement of transportation infrastructure, and the creation of commercial ports to support key industries like oil, gas, and fishing. By fostering a holistic approach to tourism development, Zanzibar seeks to create a sustainable ecosystem that benefits both the local community and the industry stakeholders. In line with efforts to boost revenue collections from the tourism sector, Zanzibar has implemented digital platforms for tax compliance and revenue monitoring. By streamlining tax processes and promoting transparency, the government aims to optimize revenue generation and ensure effective resource allocation towards tourism development projects. As Zanzibar navigates its recovery journey, the government is exploring avenues to enhance air connectivity and attract more international airlines to the destination. While the implementation of open skies policies is primarily overseen by the United Republic of Tanzania, Zanzibar is working closely with the central government to foster collaboration and expand air transport networks. By engaging the private sector and promoting investment in the aviation industry, Zanzibar aims to improve connectivity and accessibility for both regional and international travelers. With a strong focus on sustainability, rebranding, and infrastructure development, Zanzibar is poised to emerge as a leading tourism destination in East Africa. By embracing innovation and collaboration, the island seeks to revitalize its tourism sector and create lasting economic benefits for its people and partners.