Zanzibar president defends mandatory insurance for tourists amid backlash

Unguja. Zanzibar president Hussein Mwinyi has defended the mandatory insurance cover for tourists entering the archipelago, saying that his government bears high costs when the visitors get sick or involved in accident.

All foreign visitors are required to acquire inbound travel insurance cover of up to 92 days stay in the islands, from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation, starting October 1, 2024.

The insurance for non-residents which costs $44, in addition to their Tanzania e-Visa, was criticised by the tour operators and opposition politicians who argue that it can add unnecessary cost for tourists who rarely travel without the cover.

Speaking at the Zanzibar State House on September 26, 2024, during a meeting with Italy’s new ambassador to Tanzania, Dr Mwinyi explained that the new insurance policy will safeguard both tourists and the government.

He said the introduction of travel insurance for tourists is aimed at strengthening the tourism sector and creating a safer, more visitor-friendly environment, while reducing the financial burden on the government which has been covering expenses for tourists who fall ill or experience accidents.

“The government has been shouldering significant costs for tourists who fall ill, get into accidents, or even pass away while visiting. The introduction of this insurance will ease that burden,” Dr Mwinyi said.

While the move announced in July was criticised, some other stakeholders welcomed it as a necessary step for safety.

The insurance will cover health emergencies and other incidents tourists might encounter while in the country. That includes accidents, loss of personal belongings, or even death, offering protection within Tanzania’s borders.

Dr Mwinyi stressed that travel health insurance is a common practice worldwide, helping to ensure that tourists receive quality healthcare and are protected against potential mishaps.

He clarified that the objective is not to create an additional revenue stream for the government but to improve the tourism sector, making Zanzibar a safer destination for international visitors.

Dr Mwinyi also praised the partnership between Zanzibar and Italy, emphasising Italy’s significant role in Zanzibar’s tourism sector. He encouraged Italian businesses to explore investment opportunities in other sectors of the island’s economy, beyond tourism.

Ambassador Giuseppe Sean Coppola reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to supporting Zanzibar, particularly in healthcare, tourism, and waste management.

He expressed Italy’s willingness to assist in areas such as managing neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) in Pemba and improving maternal and child health.

Regarding the tourism sector, ambassador Coppola pledged to provide training and capacity-building initiatives for Zanzibar’s tourism institutions and stakeholders, aiming to boost Zanzibar’s status as a leading global tourist destination.