LARGE Italian luxury cruise ship with a total of 442 people arrived yesterday in Mafia District, Coast Region from Moroni, Comoros Islands.

The ship christened ‘The World’ with 288 crew members and 154 passengers docked at Ras Kisimani Mafia where tourists began enjoying entertainment from various traditional dance groups as well as the beautiful scenery.

Speaking during the reception of the tourists, Mafia District Commissioner Aziza Mangosongo said that the arrival of the ship was a result of the efforts of the government in promoting the Tanzanian destination to the world.

Apart from promotion initiatives at national level, she said there are local initiatives such as Mafia Island Festival. 

“We as people of Mafia thank President Samia Suluhu Hassan for paving the way for us; we will continue from where she left," she said. 

Furthermore, she emphasized that Mafia Island is safe and its infrastructure has improved, indicating its readiness to host tourists and investors from around the world.

Alma Martinez, one of the crew members from Mexico, said that it was her first time to visit Tanzania and was impressed by its beauty and unique culture.

 "It's my first time in Mafia and I'm amazed by its beauty. As you can see everyone is very happy, especially me as I've been able to experience the culture of Tanzanians," she said.