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Tanzania’s Ambassador to France and Permanent Representative to UNESCO, Saidi Othman Yakubu, has called for stronger efforts to protect Zanzibar’s historical, cultural and natural heritage while ensuring the resources contribute to sustainable tourism and economic development.
Ambassador Yakubu made the remarks during a tour of key heritage sites in Unguja, including Stone Town and Jozani Forest, to highlight the importance of conservation and international cooperation.
Accompanied by Zanzibar’s Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, Aboud Selemani Jumbe, Ambassador Yakubu visited several sites in Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The sites included Darajani Market, the Royal Tombs, Old Fort and the House of Wonders, as well as ongoing conservation and investment projects in the historic town.
The visit also included Jozani Forest, an important natural heritage area known for its biodiversity.
Speaking during the tour, Ambassador Yakubu said heritage conservation should go beyond preserving physical structures, noting that it also involves protecting history, culture and national identity.
He said Zanzibar’s heritage assets could play a greater role in supporting sustainable tourism and creating economic opportunities for communities if conservation efforts were properly integrated with development plans.
“Heritage conservation is more than protecting old buildings and sites. It is about preserving our history, culture and identity while ensuring these resources contribute to sustainable tourism and the development of our people,” he said.
Ambassador Yakubu also stressed the importance of continued cooperation between the Zanzibar Government, UNESCO and other stakeholders in protecting the islands’ cultural and natural heritage.
The engagement comes as Zanzibar continues to rely heavily on tourism, placing greater importance on the sustainable management of historic sites, natural attractions and other assets that form part of the islands’ tourism offering.
The challenge for authorities is to balance conservation with investment and tourism growth while ensuring that local communities benefit from the economic value generated by Zanzibar’s heritage.
