The President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, emphasized the vital role of the private sector in boosting Tanzania's tourism sector across various dimensions.
He reaffirmed the government's commitment to continued collaboration with the private sector to foster sustainable tourism.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the special diplomatic tour (Safari Diplomatic Tour) on April 14, 2025, at Kwanza Hotel in Kizimkazi, South Unguja Region, Dr. Mwinyi stated, "The private sector plays an integral part in the development of tourism in Zanzibar and Tanzania as a whole. It is through strategic collaboration that we can ensure the sustainability of our tourism industry."
The tour aimed to promote Tanzania’s tourism and economic diplomacy to ambassadors accredited to the country.
Dr. Mwinyi highlighted that the government is taking robust steps to strengthen the tourism sector, with an emphasis on sustainability.
"Our vision is to make Zanzibar a globally recognized tourism hub, attracting millions of visitors from around the world," he added.
"Tourism is not just an economic driver, it is a bridge that connects people from different corners of the world."
The President also discussed the significant infrastructure improvements that the government has undertaken, such as enhancing airport facilities to offer superior services to tourists.
"We have made substantial investments in improving road networks, healthcare, electricity, and water services, all of which contribute to building an attractive and sustainable tourism environment," he said.
As a result of these efforts, Tanzania has witnessed a steady increase in tourist arrivals. "Every year, we are receiving close to two million tourists, a sign that our tourism sector is growing and that the world is recognizing Tanzania’s potential," Dr. Mwinyi explained.
He also noted that Zanzibar is now connected to 34 international airlines, which has helped bring tourists from all over the globe.
"This international connectivity is a key factor in Zanzibar's success as a top tourist destination," he added.
President Mwinyi also expressed his admiration for The Royal Tour documentary by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, which he described as an essential tool in promoting Tanzania’s tourist attractions globally.
"The Royal Tour has been a game changer in showcasing Tanzania to the world. It has opened new doors for tourism and highlighted our country's unique beauty and potential."
Regarding the country’s investment strategies, he said, "Thanks to our focused investment initiatives, Zanzibar welcomed 548,503 tourists in 2022, and the number grew to 736,755 in 2023. Our efforts have been recognized on the global stage, as we were awarded the World Travel Award for being the leading destination for international festivals and conferences."
The President also discussed the importance of the Safari Diplomatic Tour, describing it as a critical step toward fostering international cooperation through tourism.
He urged the ambassadors to encourage investment in Tanzania, particularly in the meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) sector.
"There are still many untapped opportunities, especially in conference tourism, and I urge you to inspire investors from your respective countries to seize these opportunities," he stated.
The diplomatic tour, which was attended by 34 ambassadors from countries across the world, included visits to Tanzania’s top tourist destinations in Arusha, Ngorongoro, and Zanzibar.
Dr. Mwinyi stated, "By experiencing the beauty of Tanzania firsthand, these ambassadors are now better equipped to share our story with their countries and promote our tourism sector on a global scale."
The event was organized by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism of the United Republic of Tanzania, in collaboration with the Zanzibar Ministry of Tourism and Heritage and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation.
