Hassan Magulumali
The opposition party ACT-Wazalendo in Zanzibar is calling for the immediate withdrawal of a newly introduced mandatory travel insurance policy, scheduled to take effect in less than three weeks. The party argues that the policy, which requires all visitors to Zanzibar to purchase a $44 insurance plan upon entry, risks damaging the island’s vital tourism industry.
In an interview with The Citizen, ACT-Wazalendo’s Vice Chairman, Ismail Jussa Ladhu, voiced concerns over the lack of consultation with key stakeholders before the policy was introduced. “This travel policy should be withdrawn due to its likely negative impact on the tourism sector,” Jussa said. He added that the policy could make Zanzibar an unappealing and expensive destination, with international media already reporting negatively on the development.
Tourism is a cornerstone of Zanzibar’s economy, and Jussa warned that the mandatory travel insurance could deter potential visitors. “Tourists often choose their destinations based on recommendations and current perceptions, and we are already seeing backlash from stakeholders in the tourism industry,” he explained.
Also Read:Masauni Urges Security Forces to Prepare for Elections
The controversial policy, set to begin on October 1, mandates all visitors to purchase the insurance at the point of entry, even if they are already covered by travel insurance from their home country. The plan, offered exclusively by the government-owned Zanzibar Insurance Corporation, will cover health emergencies, baggage loss, accidents, passport loss, emergency evacuation, and repatriation in case of death.
While the Zanzibar government argues that the new insurance scheme will enhance visitor services, critics, including ACT-Wazalendo, fear it could backfire. Jussa noted that the policy’s implementation lacked proper engagement with the tourism sector, which could result in a decline in tourist numbers.
The issue has sparked significant debate within the tourism industry. Many stakeholders have expressed dissatisfaction with how the policy was introduced and its potential impact on both visitors and local businesses.
Zanzibar’s Finance Minister, Dr. Saada Mkuya Salum, defended the policy earlier in July, saying it aims to improve the overall experience for tourists by offering comprehensive coverage for unforeseen circumstances. However, this rationale has done little to ease concerns from the opposition and tourism operators, who fear the added cost and rigidity of the insurance requirement could deter tourists from choosing Zanzibar as a destination, especially when neighboring countries like Tanzania and others in East Africa do not impose similar requirements.
