Embark on a Journey of Innovation and Collaboration: The Z-Summit 2023 Officially Begins, Bringing Together Tourism Stakeholders from Around the World to the Island of Zanzibar
The Z-Summit kicked off on Thursday, 23rd February 2023, at the Golden Tulip Airport Hotel Zanzibar. The event started early, with exhibitors finalizing their setup and registration of visitors beginning at 7:00 am. The highlight of the morning was the official opening by the Chief Guest, H.E. Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, the President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council.
Upon his arrival at 10:30 am, the President was welcomed by the Z-Summit Chairman, Mr. Rahim Bhaloo. The entourage then visited many of the exhibition booth stands, introducing the diverse tourism products that Tanzania and especially Zanzibar had to offer to visitors.
The official opening ceremony began with the National Anthem by the brass band, followed by welcome notes by the CEO of Kilifair, Dominic Shoo, and Tom Kunkler on how and when the Z-Summit started. The Zanzibar Tourism Ambassador, Siti Amina, provided entertainment, and Hon. Minister for Tourism & Heritage, Hon. Simai M. Said, and Rahim Bhaloo, Chairman of Z-Summit, welcomed the guests with their remarks.
The keynote speech and official opening address by the Chief Guest, H.E. Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, expressed the government’s appreciation to the investors under ZATI and KILIFAIR for taking this initiative for having the much-needed Tourism Fair, The Z-Summit. The President assured the government’s full support to the Z-Summit, encouraging the organizers to continue promoting tourism in Zanzibar.
The official launch of the Travel Zanzibar / The Summit Magazine followed the President’s address, with a photo session and ribbon cutting. The event was attended by several dignitaries and diplomats.
The addresses and keynote speeches highlighted the importance of the tourism sector in Zanzibar, which directly contributes 29.2% to the GDP. The Blue Economy and Tourism Policies were emphasized to ensure that the sector continues to thrive. Sustainable tourism was a significant focus, along with the international ranking of Zanzibar as a preferred tourism destination. Other topics included increasing the number of visitors, private sector contributions to the economic growth of the sector, attracting more investors, and ease of doing business. Stone Town, considered by UNESCO as one of the World Heritage sites, was also discussed.
The event has already been a massive success, with over 100 exhibitors and 250 registered travel buyers from 23 countries. The day unfolded with meetings, seminars, networking, and an evening-sponsored cocktail at the famous Cape Town Fish Market.
Day 2 of the event promises to be just as exciting, with business and networking continuing, followed by a 2-day Fam trip for hosted buyers to see the sights and sounds of the Island, including activities and site visits to several hotels. We look forward to seeing the impact of the Z-Summit on the tourism industry in Zanzibar and beyond.
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