Tourists from Italy lead the chart of tourists visiting Zanzibar, but that situation may change in the near future should the new strategies to attract tourists from the Middle East and other parts of the world succeed.
Using the slogan ‘Destination Zanzibar, more than sun, sand and beaches’ Zanzibar is now targeting to attract tourists from the gulf region, after organizing a conference for both local and international investors to enlighten their business and services they offer.
“We need innovation; Zanzibar still has a lot to offer to the tourists. Conserved environment, culture, Zanzibar people and other things can attract tourists from other regions like the gulf and Asia,” said Ms Hafsa Mbamba, Managing Director of ‘Grassroots’ travel, which organized the event.
Participants came-up with a strategy that “proper planning, environmental conservation, improved infrastructure and promoting eco-tourists in across the world especially middle income countries and nations with emerging economies, will increase the number of tourists to Zanzibar.”
A considerable number of investors including Mtoni marine; INAYA Zanzibar.; ‘Sustainable East Africa’; Rahim Saggaf’ Creative designer; Chumbe Island; Kawa Tours training centre; ‘Sober House’ and ‘Safar Blue’ were presented at the gathering held at Seyyid Hotels & Spa.
All the speakers at the meeting said ‘sustainable Zanzibar’ was a priority and their businesses and services promote environmental conservation both in and off shore areas. “We are very passionate about environment and we tell our guests about that,” the guest speakers said.
Zanzibar has announced revamping the tourism industry which contributes to more than 75 per cent of the Islands foreign currency. The authorities in collaboration with investors and Community Based Organizations (CBOs) are ‘promoting tourism for all.’
By ISSA YUSSUF, Tanzania Daily News
