Zanzibar tightens waste management rules to safeguard tourism

Unguja. Zanzibar has officially launched a Waste Management Program, set to take effect on July 1, 2025, as part of the broader Greener Zanzibar and Sustainable Tourism campaign in an effort to safeguard its tourism industry.

The initiative implemented by The Zanzibar Commission for Tourism (ZCT) aligns with the vision of President Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, who has emphasized the need for ecologically responsible tourism to preserve Zanzibar’s natural beauty and sustain its global appeal.

Speaking to yesterday ZCT Executive Secretary, Arif Abbas Manji said the efforts aim to encourage hotels, restaurants, and other tourism businesses to adopt environmentally friendly practices, particularly in waste management.

While many establishments have responded positively to the initiative, some businesses have yet to comply.

“Under the new program, all tourist establishments must train staff in proper waste sorting, recycling, and disposal techniques. They are also required to segregate different waste streams, including organic and recyclable materials, and contract licensed waste collection providers for efficient disposal,” he noted.

To achieve that he said, ZCT will support these efforts by providing training programs, setting clear waste management guidelines, and optimizing waste collection logistics to improve efficiency.

“Tourism in Zanzibar thrives on our unique natural and cultural assets. However, sustainable practices have been optional for too long. We must make them mandatory to ensure the future of our tourism industry,” said Mr. Arif. “If we do not act now, we risk long-term harm to our environment and economy. Our goal is to balance tourism growth with environmental responsibility.”

To enforce compliance, ZCT has introduced stringent penalties, including fines and potential revocation of business licenses for those failing to meet waste management standards. This firm approach aims to foster a culture of sustainability within the tourism sector.

With this initiative, Zanzibar positions itself as a leader in sustainable tourism, demonstrating its commitment to environmental preservation while ensuring the long-term growth and success of its tourism industry.