The opposition party ACT-Wazalendo in Zanzibar is urging the government to withdraw the newly implemented mandatory travel insurance policy, which is set to take effect in three weeks.
In an interview with The Citizen, ACT-Wazalendo’s Vice Chairman, Ismail Jussa Ladhu, criticized the policy for insufficient stakeholder engagement and its potential negative impact on the tourism industry.
“In my view, which reflects ACT-Wazalendo’s stance, this travel policy should be withdrawn due to its likely negative impact on the tourism sector,” Mr. Jussa stated. He added that the policy would make Zanzibar an expensive destination and has already attracted negative attention in international media.
Mr. Jussa expressed concern that the policy could deter tourists, who often choose destinations based on recommendations and current perceptions. He noted that tourism stakeholders have voiced dissatisfaction with the policy’s implementation.
Zanzibar’s tourism sector has been a vital part of the island’s economy for the past 30 years and remains sensitive, especially after the downturn during the pandemic. Mr. Jussa highlighted that Zanzibar is not the only destination in East Africa or the Indian Ocean competing for visitors. He criticized the authorities for comparing Zanzibar’s situation to that of other markets, arguing that local services and infrastructure do not match those of competing destinations. “You cannot compare the services in Zanzibar to those in Qatar, especially when our services are monopolistic and more expensive. The government seems focused on revenue collection without considering the broader implications,” he said.
He further stated that reconsidering the policy in light of its negative reviews would show the government’s willingness to listen to diverse opinions. He emphasized that Zanzibar is already an expensive destination, and many visitors arrive with their own travel insurance from their home countries. “It’s as if we’re asking visitors to pay for the same thing twice,” Mr. Jussa added. He also pointed out that local health services, both private and public, face similar challenges, often requiring people to seek treatment in Dar es Salaam.
Mr. Jussa raised concerns for the Zanzibar and Tanzanian diaspora, whose remittances are crucial for many families on the island. Unlike tourists, diaspora members typically stay with relatives, contributing to the local economy. He noted that discussions about supporting the diaspora have been insufficient.
Additionally, there are reports that Western countries may retaliate by increasing visa fees for Tanzanians traveling to the EU, Britain, and the US.
Starting October 1, all visitors to Zanzibar will be required to purchase a mandatory travel insurance policy costing $44 upon entry, regardless of any existing coverage from their home country. In July, Zanzibar’s Finance Minister, Dr. Saada Mkuya Salum, told The Citizen that the new policy aims to enhance visitor services by covering health, baggage loss, accidents, emergency evacuation, passport loss, and repatriation in case of death. The insurance will be provided by the government-owned Zanzibar Insurance Corporation and will not consider any existing travel insurance policies. Previously, travel insurance was not mandatory in Tanzania or other East African countries.
