On August 28, 2024, Zanzibar played host to a pivotal event in its commitment to sustainable tourism—the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) High-Level Workshop. This event, supported by the European Union (EU) and in partnership with Zanzibar’s Ministry of Tourism and Heritage, brought together over 50 representatives from various government departments, marking a significant step towards a unified strategy for responsible tourism development.
The workshop, inaugurated by Engineer Zena Said, the Chief Secretary of the Zanzibar Revolutionary Government, and Dr. Aboud Jumbe, the Principal Secretary for Tourism and Heritage, featured robust discussions and presentations. Key figures such as Fatma Mabrouk Khamis, Principal Secretary for Trade, and Massimiliano Pedretti, Programme Manager for Energy from the EU Delegation to Tanzania, were also present.
The workshop showcased expert insights on sustainable tourism practices. Randy Durband, CEO of the GSTC, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the organization and its Assurance Program, while Professor Halil Burak Sakal, a GSTC Trainer, offered an in-depth look at Türkiye’s successful sustainable tourism program. GSTC Trainer Diana Körner focused on the GSTC Criteria for destinations, emphasizing the crucial role these guidelines play in policy formulation.
The event culminated in a collaborative session dedicated to crafting a sustainable tourism strategy for Zanzibar. Chief Secretary Zena Said’s closing remarks highlighted the workshop’s transformative impact, emphasizing the critical need for a cohesive strategy and clear policy direction within Zanzibar’s tourism sector.
The workshop’s success was further underscored by a field trip to Chumbe Island, a shining example of international sustainable tourism in Zanzibar. Participants explored the island’s innovative off-grid eco-architecture and engaged with the local team, gaining firsthand experience of sustainable practices in action.
The event received enthusiastic support from key stakeholders. Massimiliano Pedretti, on behalf of the EU Ambassador to Tanzania, stated, “Zanzibar’s sustainable tourism journey is timely, and as the European Union, we are very proud to be part of its support. We are committed to fostering sustainable tourism practices that not only protect the environment but also ensure long-term economic and social benefits to the people of Zanzibar. This workshop, which brought together key actors, was a promising step in the right direction.”
Dr. Aboud Suleiman Jumbe, Principal Secretary, Minister of Tourism and Heritage of Zanzibar, echoed the sentiments of optimism, saying, “The successful conclusion of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) High-Level Workshop marks a significant milestone in Zanzibar’s sustainable tourism journey. This workshop, which brought together Principal Secretaries and their deputies from various ministries, is a critical foundation for the future of sustainable tourism in Zanzibar. By bringing all policymakers into one room, we have created a shared understanding of the importance of sustainable tourism and how it can contribute to Zanzibar’s long-term growth and environmental and social protection. This workshop sets the groundwork for accelerating this journey, ensuring that tourism policies align with global standards and the vision for a sustainable future. As we move ahead, we look forward to hosting similar workshops, engaging members of the Cabinet, the House of Representatives, senior government officials and most importantly the private sector groups ranging from tour operators, tour guides, hospitality sector, and aviation to name a few. These collaborative efforts will be vital in ensuring that Zanzibar remains at the forefront of sustainable tourism development, fostering a coordinated and inclusive approach across all levels of government.”
Diana Körner, GSTC Trainer, expressed her confidence in Zanzibar’s commitment to sustainable tourism, saying, “Seeing this workshop come to fruition with the endorsement and participation of Zanzibar’s Chief Secretary shows the strong political will and commitment towards sustainable tourism transformation in the country. I look forward to implementing the Sustainable Tourism Training Program for public sector representatives over the next months and to continue to support this promising momentum.”
This workshop serves as a testament to Zanzibar’s dedication to responsible tourism development. Since joining the GSTC in May 2024, Zanzibar has taken significant strides towards aligning its tourism policies with global sustainability standards. The workshop signifies a crucial step in this journey, paving the way for a future where tourism benefits the environment, local communities, and the economy in equal measure.
