Tanzania: Zanzibar Aviation, Tourism Networking Encouraged

Zanzibar — ZANZIBAR has chances of attracting more tourists and investors should there be tangible improvements, including in the aviation and tourism networking.

The point was raised by the Zanzibar Minister for Infrastructure and Communication, Mr Juma Duni Haji, at the opening of a two-day Aviation and Tourism Forum organised by the Zanzibar Airports Authority (ZAA).

The forum which was followed by a trade exhibition, aimed at creating a platform for exploring new aviation-related business opportunities, especially with regional and international airlines and equally with tourism operators and developers.

"We understand the significant roles aviation and tourism play in Zanzibar's economic and social development," said Mr Haji as he encouraged participants and forum organisers' focus on specific areas.

The areas of focus are improving accessibility to Zanzibar and Pemba, promoting tourism development at the destination and in the region, providing information on Zanzibar airports and creating awareness on business, development, safety, security and operations.

"Re-development of tourism products, improvement of connectivity, and establishing Zanzibar as a free port and free trade area in the East African region, may subsequently transform the Island into a Dubai of Africa," said Mr Haji.

ZAA Acting Director, Mr Juma Saleh said that the forum brought together government agencies, businesses, and private organisations to preserve and promote tourism and resources for the benefits of residents and visitors.