New Zanzibar Travel Insurance Rule Faces Backlash from Tourism Industry
The new requirement for tourists visiting Zanzibar to obtain inbound travel insurance has sparked strong criticism from the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO). TATO Chairman Wilbard Chambulo expressed his opposition to reporters yesterday, citing the new policy set to take effect on October 1. This policy mandates that travelers must have both insurance and an e-Visa, which costs $44 for non-resident visitors. Chambulo criticized the rule as unreasonable and burdensome for travelers.
“Requiring tourists to purchase additional insurance through a government-run corporation is unnecessary, as most foreign tourists already travel with insurance,” he said. Chambulo confirmed that international travel agents share concerns about the justification for this new requirement.
He suggested that the government’s role should be to ensure that visitors have insurance and that the mandate should focus on those without coverage, allowing them to choose from various insurance providers. Chambulo also noted that while the $44 fee may not deter many travelers, it should not dictate the price or the provider, implying that “this policy feels like a form of taxation.” He expressed concerns that the rule could damage Zanzibar’s reputation as a travel destination and proposed an alternative: imposing a conservation fee or similar charge, with proceeds allocated to healthcare and tourism facilities.
Chambulo questioned the involvement of the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC) as the sole provider of this insurance, wondering if ZIC operates as a commission agency. He highlighted that tourists might prefer having the option to select their insurer rather than being required to purchase what he views as redundant insurance. “If so, what percentage of the $44 does ZIC retain?” he asked, stressing that the government should not interfere in private sector matters. “Market forces should dictate these aspects, or we risk creating the perception of a monopoly in health or insurance provision,” he said.
According to the Zanzibar government, all visitors arriving via seaport or airport must carry valid inbound travel insurance that covers up to 92 days. The aim of this law is to safeguard tourists and mitigate potential travel-related risks.
Starting September 1, ZIC will be the exclusive provider of this insurance, which offers “comprehensive coverage for emergencies, including repatriation, evacuation, and other contingencies.” Authorities assert that this requirement is designed to cover unexpected illnesses and uncertainties during a visitor’s stay in Tanzania, with noncompliance potentially leading to denial of entry at immigration checkpoints.
The policy is non-renewable and provides basic coverage including emergency medical expenses, repatriation charges, personal accident coverage, baggage delay, theft and loss, legal expenses, third-party liability, and more. Visitors staying beyond ninety-two days will need to purchase new coverage.
