Zanzibar to host eco-tourism summit in 2024: Charting a Greener Future for the Islands

Unguja. Zanzibar is gearing up to host a landmark event in 2024: the Zanzibar Sustainable Tourism Summit (ZSTS).

The two-day gathering, scheduled for February 19-20, 2024, promises to be a pivotal moment for shaping a greener future for the island's tourism industry.

According to the executive director of the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism, Ms. Hafsa Mbamba, the event paints a vibrant picture of the summit's purpose.

 "ZSTS will serve as a platform to showcase Zanzibar's vision for sustainable tourism," she told reporters on December 12, 2023 .

"It's a chance to share best practices, network with global stakeholders, and chart a course for a future where tourism flourishes alongside environmental protection and community well-being."

The theme, "Greener Zanzibar," speaks volumes about the summit's focus. Workshops and training sessions on the first day will equip local tourism stakeholders with the knowledge and tools to embrace sustainable practices.

From responsible food and waste management to effective conservation strategies, the summit aims to empower Zanzibar's tourism industry to operate in harmony with its delicate ecosystem.

The second day promises to be equally impactful. Participants will delve into the "Green Label Scheme," a pivotal policy document outlining a roadmap for sustainable tourism in Zanzibar.

This comprehensive framework will guide future development and ensure that tourism contributes positively to the islands' environmental and social fabric.

Familiarisation trips prior to the summit will allow participants to immerse themselves in Zanzibar's diverse beauty, from the turquoise waters of Unguja to the lush greenery of Pemba.

These firsthand experiences will undoubtedly spark insightful discussions and fuel a shared vision for a sustainable future.

ZSTS is not just a summit; it's a movement. It's a call to action for stakeholders across the globe to join hands and build a sustainable future for Zanzibar.

By fostering collaboration, sharing best practices, and investing in eco-friendly solutions, ZSTS has the potential to become a catalyst for positive change in the island's tourism landscape.

The venue for this momentous event is fittingly symbolic. Hotel Verde, crowned Africa's Leading Green Hotel by the World Travel Awards, will provide a platform for green solutions to take center stage.

Zanzibar's commitment to sustainable tourism is further strengthened by the "Zanzibar Declaration on Sustainable Tourism," adopted earlier this year.

This declaration aligns with global initiatives like the One Planet Network Glasgow Declaration and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, demonstrating the island's dedication to responsible tourism development.

Zanzibar Sustainable Tourism Summit is more than just a conference; it's a promise. A promise to nurture the islands' natural beauty, empower its communities, and build a thriving tourism industry that respects the delicate balance between human progress and environmental well-being.