Kilwa. Zanzibar’s tourism industry is setting its sights on the historical and cultural treasures of mainland Tanzania, with key stakeholders embarking on a special familiarisation tour of Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara in Lindi Region.
The initiative is part of broader efforts to diversify and expand the country’s tourism market by promoting heritage and nature-based attractions.
Organised by the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism and the Zanzibar Association of Tourism Operators (ZATO), the tour, which took place on February 6, 2025, was facilitated by the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA).
The objective was to strengthen collaboration between Zanzibar and mainland Tanzania’s tourism sectors, explore investment opportunities, and enhance international tourism promotion efforts.
Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, hold a rich historical significance as remnants of the once-thriving Swahili trading empire.
Their ancient ruins, dating back centuries, narrate the region’s illustrious past as a hub of commerce and cultural exchange.
The visit provided tour operators with first-hand exposure to these awe-inspiring sites, allowing them to craft tailored travel packages that appeal to global heritage travellers.
The delegations from Zanzibar and Mailand were led by Hamza Hassan, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Business at TAWA, Mohammed Walid Fikirin from the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism, and Thabit Abdulrazak Abdulrahman of ZATO.
Their discussions centred on strategies to promote not only Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara but also other lesser-known attractions such as Pande Game Reserve, Kunduchi Ruins, and Wami-Mbiki Wildlife Management Area.
The aim is to position these destinations as must-visit locations for both domestic and international tourists.
This initiative aligns with the government’s broader vision of integrating Zanzibar with mainland attractions, fostering sustainable tourism growth, and unlocking economic potential through cultural, historical, and ecological tourism.
With efforts like these, Tanzania continues to cement its reputation as a world-class destination, offering travellers an enchanting blend of pristine beaches, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes.
