Zanzibar Power & Water Supply to Boost Tourism in North Region

THE ZANZIBAR GOVERNMENT IS ADDRESSING POWER AND WATER SUPPLY ISSUES IN THE NORTH REGION, A KEY TOURISM HUB, AFTER CONCERNS WERE RAISED BY STAKEHOLDERS. THE GOVERNMENT IS CONDUCTING FEASIBILITY STUDIES FOR A MAJOR POWER PROJECT AND CONSIDERING REDUCING IMPORT CHARGES ON SOLAR POWER EQUIPMENT, AMONG OTHER MEASURES.

The government of Zanzibar has responded to concerns raised by tourism stakeholders regarding power and water supply issues in the North Region, which is a significant hub of tourism on the Isles. During a meeting with the Zanzibar Association of Tourism Investors and other stakeholders, the Tourism and Heritage Minister, Simai Mohammed Said, discussed the inadequate power infrastructure in the area and noted that a study is being conducted to determine the extent of the problem and take appropriate action. The government is also conducting a feasibility study for a major power project and considering a reduction in import charges on solar power equipment. Additionally, stakeholders highlighted issues such as noise pollution, quality of food and beverages, and solid waste management in the region.

Mr. Mohammed addressed the noise pollution caused by non-compliance with existing laws by nightclub and bar operators and promised to launch a crackdown on habitual noise polluters after the Holy Month of Ramadan. He also discussed the recovery of the tourism sector, which has rebounded sooner than expected. However, the lack of direct flights between Zanzibar and France remains a significant challenge, although the number of tourist arrivals from France is increasing. The ministry plans to promote Zanzibar as a tourist destination in April, May, and June, targeting potential visitors from the Middle East to counterbalance a decline in tourists from Mainland Tanzania during the expected long rains.

A report jointly released on March 22, 2023 by the Chief Government Statistician, the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism, and the Immigration department, reveals that Zanzibar witnessed a decline in foreign visitor arrivals in February 2023, with 65,430 visitors, a 4.9% decrease from January 2023’s 68,813 visitors. The report highlights that the majority of visitors arrived at the Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, with a smaller number arriving via sea transport.

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