THE Zanzibar Tourism Commission (ZTC) is later this month set to host its first major tourism exhibition aimed at promoting the attractions and investment opportunities available on the islands.

Addressing a news conference yesterday here, ZTC Executive Secretary Arif Arbas Manji said that the festival will take place from October 25 to 26 in Arusha, showcasing the unique offerings of the clove-scented islands and highlighting potential investment opportunities.

“We thank the Regional Commissioner of Arusha, Paul Makonda, for his commitment to collaborating with us in promoting Zanzibar’s tourism sector in Arusha," Manji said.

He added that the ZTC has come to Arusha to invite stakeholders in the tourism sector to join the festival, which seeks to boost economic growth in the region.

Currently, tourism contributes 30 percent to Zanzibar’s economy, with 80 percent of foreign exchange earnings derived from the sector.

Manji noted that their success stems from diversifying tourism offerings beyond the islands, with approximately 550,000 tourists visiting Zanzibar in 2022 and 638,449 in 2023.

“Through investments made over the past three years under the leadership of Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, we have attracted a total of 5 trillion shillings in tourism investments, along with an additional 3.5trn/- in other sectors,” he said.

The exhibition will serve as an international platform, bringing together investors, tourists, and stakeholders from various tourism sectors, both domestic and international. Over 250 stakeholders are expected to participate, including hotel owners, tourism operators, safari organisers, and investors.

Participants will receive training and insights on investment opportunities and sector development.

Manji also outlined the commission’s strategic plan to expand the tourism sector in collaboration with the Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB) and all regions in mainland Tanzania.

“We aim to diversify into areas such as heritage tourism, sports tourism, and health tourism to achieve our objectives,” he said.

Regional Commissioner Paul Makonda emphasised the importance of creating a conducive environment for businesses and investors, which will help attract more visitors and generate jobs for Tanzanians.

“It’s undeniable that tourism is one of the pillars of our economy. While we have various other sources, tourism is a significant sector where many young people have found employment,” he said.

Makonda urged all leaders overseeing tourism associations to attend the exhibition, as the knowledge gained will help them attract more visitors to Arusha based on the products showcased.