From 1 October 2024, all travellers to Zanzibar will be required to purchase mandatory travel insurance through a new platform launched by the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation.
The insurance will cost US$44 and provides coverage for various emergency situations, including medical expenses, evacuation, and baggage issues.
The introduction of this requirement, which was initially postponed by a month, has sparked concern among industry professionals. Marjan Sandu, Director of AfricaStay, a tour operator specialising in Zanzibar packages, warned that the move could negatively impact the island’s tourism market, particularly among budget and three-star travellers.
“High-end, five-star clients will still come, but for the budget market, this will have a big impact,” said Sandu.
The insurance policy offers coverage for up to US$50,000 in emergency medical expenses and medical evacuation, along with repatriation costs and accidental death on public transport. It also includes compensation for baggage delays, theft, and damage, as well as bail advances and personal liability coverage. However, it does not cover terrorism and is only valid upon arrival in Zanzibar.
The Zanzibar Insurance Corporation has reassured travellers that special packages will be available for families. However, there are concerns about how the government insurance company will manage the influx of clients, with Sandu noting, “There are still a lot of doubts and question marks in the background.”
