ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR’S Chief Secretary, Engineer Zena Ahmed Said, has emphasised the importance of collective efforts to advance sustainable tourism practices that will boost job creation and incomes while preserving the archipelago’s environment.
Speaking at a high-level seminar on sustainable tourism held here Eng Zena underscored the need for integrating environmental and cultural preservation with tourism growth.
“We have made progress, but we must do more to boost tourism income while protecting our environment and culture,” Eng Zena stated.
The seminar, attended by Permanent Secretaries and tourism executives, focused on achieving a sustainable future for Zanzibar’s tourism sector.
Eng Zena (pictured) noted that tourism currently contributes nearly 30 per cent to the government’s GDP.
For Small Island Developing States (SIDS) like Zanzibar, she emphasised the need for both national and international efforts to implement effective policies that mitigate risks and promote sustainable practices.
The seminar, supported by the European Union (EU) under the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) training programme, also featured remarks from Dr Aboud Suleiman Jumbe, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism and Heritage.
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Dr Jumbe affirmed the government’s commitment to sustainable and participatory tourism, emphasising the protection of cultural heritage, the environment and historical sites.
Dr Jumbe also highlighted President Hussein Ali Mwinyi’s directive to implement reform plans in the tourism sector, including raising public awareness about sustainable practices.
Mr Massimiliano Pedretti, Programme Manager for Energy at the EU Delegation to Tanzania, praised Zanzibar’s commitment to sustainable tourism.
He noted that fostering sustainable tourism will not only create jobs and benefit local communities but also preserve Zanzibar’s unique landscapes and biodiversity.
Pedretti emphasized that EU support extends to environmental and economic development, including initiatives in coastal and marine conservation, fisheries and the blue economy.
He stressed the importance of engaging all stakeholders in the tourism sector to ensure the island’s economic, social, cultural and environmental sustainability.
The seminar marks a significant step towards aligning Zanzibar’s tourism industry with global sustainability goals.
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