Zanzibar set to introduce US$44 insurance fee for visitors

ZANZIBAR – The Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC) is gearing up to introduce tourist insurance services in early September 2024.

The three-month insurance scheme will be costing US$44 and will be paid online.

This initiative aims to provide comprehensive coverage for tourists visiting the island, including emergency medical assistance, support in case of lost passports, and repatriation of remains in the unfortunate event of death.

Dr Saada Mkuya Salum, the Finance and Planning state minister in the Zanzibar President’s Office, told a meeting of stakeholders here yesterday that under the scheme, incoming travelers would receive immediate support in particular in case of medical challenges.

She stated that setting up an insurance arrangement is expected to increase the number of tourists and thus improve revenue collection. She noted that the government was finalizing the insurance scheme procedures, which were to be managed by the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC).

The government is also improving regulatory systems to ensure the delivery of quality services for residents and visitors. Zanzibar receives many visitors, some for tourism and others for conferences.

“However, we face the challenge of not knowing how to assist visitors when they encounter problems, so having an insurance facility will make it easier to serve them whenever they face difficulties,” the minister explained.

Jape Ussi Khamis, the ZIC acting director, said that introducing such a scheme will help stimulate tourism visitations and make Zanzibar safer for tourists, which is part of government initiatives to stimulate economic growth, where tourism is a significant contributor.

Hamida Salim Juma, the manager of the ZIC business, banking, and insurance sales agents, said that traveler insurance, like other insurance schemes offered, is expected to help boost the economy and uplift productivity.

He specified that the new scheme would cover health issues and any disturbances visitors might encounter while in the country, especially in the Isles.

“The procedure for obtaining this insurance will start when the visitor applies to visit Zanzibar by filling out their details on the website for US$44, and the insurance will last for three months,” she said.

“It is a good scheme, and if a visitor falls ill or dies, the insurance will cover the transportation and medical expenses,” the manager affirmed. Participants at the meeting urged the government to consult organizations handling visitors on the matter.

One participant cautioned that diplomatic missions locally and abroad must be included and contacted for feedback before implementing the scheme to avoid misunderstandings.

This new insurance service is part of a broader strategy to enhance the tourist experience in Zanzibar, ensuring visitors can access necessary support in unexpected situations.

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