Zanzibar's Travel Insurance Aids Tourists, Payout Reaches $20 Million

Unguja. Since its introduction in October 2024, the mandatory travel insurance program implemented by the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar (RGZ) has amassed over $20 million (approximately Sh53.27 billion) from international travelers. In just the first half-year after launching, around $1.59 million (or about Sh4.13 billion) went toward providing critical assistance such as emergency care and evacuation services. This requirement, established under the oversight of the President’s Office – Finance and Planning, mandates every non-resident traveler arriving in Zanzibar to contribute a $44 (roughly equivalent to Sh116,880) towards the insurance fund upon arrival. This coverage encompasses various contingencies like health crises, fatalities, document losses, and similar unpredictable occurrences throughout one's visit to these island territories. According to Mr. Juma Makungu Juma, deputy minister responsible for finance and planning, revenues gathered between October 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025, supported necessary actions aimed at aiding distressed travelers—ranging from administering essential treatments locally to facilitating overseas transfers via specialized aircrafts operated by the local insurer whenever required. One significant case highlighted involved injured Hungarian sightseers receiving prompt post-accident therapy followed by airlifted returns back to their homeland using dedicated medevac planes arranged specifically by the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation. Similarly, arrangements have also been made concerning deceased individuals hailing from different parts of Europe and Africa whose remains needed transportation according to family wishes. During discussions held before representatives on May 22nd, 2025, concerns regarding financial performance and expenditure transparency came up; initially estimating collections standing at roughly $6m (around Sh16bn), further verification later revealed actual receipts exceeding expectations markedly reaching close to $20million (equivalent to approximately Sh53.27billion). To foster better relations among neighboring nations alongside simplifying cross-border movements amongst EAC members, fees applicable to nationals originating therein underwent reduction halving them down to merely $22 per person (close to Sh58,440 currently). Despite most contributions remaining untouched presently awaiting potential future claims primarily linked with high-stake scenarios necessitating rapid intervention either medically or logistically speaking, officials affirmatively state that reserves built-up will suffice adequately once demands arise accordingly ensuring seamless execution thereof. Syndigate.info ).