President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, has called for urgent improvements in the country’s digital visa system, stressing the need for faster, more reliable, and efficient services for international visitors.
Dr. Mwinyi made the remarks on April 24, 2026, at State House Zanzibar during discussions with the Minister for Home Affairs, Patrobas Katambi, who had paid a courtesy visit for introduction and policy engagement.
He said persistent challenges in the online visa application system have continued to inconvenience tourists and other visitors, who often experience delays at entry points, particularly airports.
He noted that such inefficiencies undermine the country’s competitiveness as a leading tourism destination.
The President emphasized that a fully functional digital visa system is now essential for modern governance and service delivery.
He said it would improve efficiency at entry points, reduce congestion, and enhance transparency by minimizing reliance on cash-based transactions.
Dr. Mwinyi directed the Ministry of Home Affairs to urgently resolve technical and operational challenges affecting the system and ensure that the online visa platform works seamlessly for all users.
He further instructed the Immigration Department to strengthen operations at airports by ensuring adequate staffing at all times and improving accountability and professionalism among officers.
He stressed that efficient service delivery at entry points plays a key role in shaping the country’s image to visitors.
On national security, Dr. Mwinyi called for intensified efforts by the Tanzania Police Force, particularly in tourism areas.
He urged stronger surveillance, faster response to incidents, and improved coordination in handling and reporting security matters to the public.
He noted that safety and security remain critical pillars for tourism growth and economic development, warning that insecurity could negatively affect investor confidence and visitor experience.
On road safety, the President expressed concern over continued violations of traffic regulations, saying weak enforcement has contributed to an increase in road accidents.
He called for stricter implementation of laws and stronger public education to promote responsible road use.
Dr. Mwinyi also underscored the importance of strengthening efforts to combat gender-based violence, describing it as a serious social challenge.
He urged relevant authorities to enhance prevention strategies, improve reporting systems, and ensure swift action against offenders.
In response, Minister Patrobas Katambi assured the President that the Ministry of Home Affairs will continue to execute its duties in accordance with the Constitution, laws, and national policies.
He pledged that all directives issued will be implemented as part of efforts to improve service delivery, strengthen security systems, and enhance institutional performance.
