Zanzibar is witnessing continued growth in investment and tourism, with the government targeting stronger participation of local businesses and communities in the sector, President Hussein Ali Mwinyi has said.
Dr Mwinyi said the growth was strengthening Zanzibar’s position as a leading destination in the global tourism market and creating new opportunities for employment and economic activity.
He made the remarks on September 6, 2026, while inaugurating Anaya Hotels & Resorts Zanzibar and Kappa Senses Zanzibar at Pwani Mchangani in North Unguja.
The two hotel developments represent an investment of more than $52 million and have so far created 371 jobs for Zanzibaris, according to the President.
Dr Mwinyi said Zanzibar was now receiving more than 100,000 tourists a month, putting the government’s target of attracting one million visitors annually within reach.
The President, however, stressed that the expansion of tourism should translate into wider economic benefits for local communities rather than being concentrated within the hospitality industry.
He urged hotels to increase their use of locally produced goods and services and provide more opportunities for local entrepreneurs, artisans and other small businesses to access the growing tourism market.
“Tourism must benefit the investor, the tourist and the people of Zanzibar,” Dr Mwinyi said, underscoring the importance of building stronger links between hotels and the local economy.
He said greater use of locally produced goods would help increase income opportunities for communities while supporting domestic businesses and strengthening the wider economic impact of tourism.
Dr Mwinyi also assured investors that the Zanzibar Government would continue improving the business environment, upgrading infrastructure and providing the support needed to attract and retain investment.
He said the government remained committed to ensuring that continued growth in tourism and investment contributes to employment creation, business opportunities and improved livelihoods for Zanzibaris.