President Samia launches 100bn/- five-star hotel in Zanzibar

ZANZIBAR: President Samia Suluhu Hassan has inaugurated a five-star international tourist hotel on the small Bawe Island, Zanzibar, an investment valued at over USD 42 million (approximately 100.8bn/-).

The project, owned by the Cocoon Collection Company, was launched as part of the celebrations leading up to the Zanzibar Revolution Day climax.

Speaking at the event on Tuesday, President Samia hailed the progress in Zanzibar as a testament to the revolutionary efforts that laid the foundation for development on the islands.

“This achievement is a reflection of the dedication of past revolutionary leaders and the Zanzibar Revolutionary Government’s efforts to drive development on these islands,” she said.

The Head of State commended the project’s investors for adhering to their agreement with the Zanzibar government and noted that the project is the company’s third investment in Zanzibar. She emphasized that this demonstrated investor confidence in the region’s governance and business environment.

“This project has created 400 jobs for Tanzanians during its construction and operation phases. Additionally, it will enhance Zanzibar’s global reputation and contribute to government revenues,” she stated.

President Samia also highlighted the government’s broader plans to invest in port infrastructure to boost the economy. She noted upcoming projects, including the completion of Shumba Mjini Port, the construction of Wete Port in Pemba, and the development of Kizimkazi Port.

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Meanwhile, Zanzibar’s President, Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, issued a three-month ultimatum to individuals and companies leasing islands but failing to initiate development projects.

“I want to make it clear today: those who have delayed construction on leased islands have three months to begin. If they fail, the government will repossess the islands and reassign them to capable investors,” Dr. Mwinyi warned.

He stressed that investments like the Bawe Island project boost local markets, increase tourist arrivals, and create job opportunities.

On his part, the Executive Director of the Zanzibar Investment Promotion Authority (ZIPA), Saleh Saad Mohamed, revealed that the government has leased 20 of the 50 small islands available for development under Zanzibar’s Blue Economy policy introduced three years ago.

Cocoon Collection Company investor Andrea Azzola described the project as an honor, stating, “Investing in Bawe, one of the best islands in the world, is a privilege. Its name alone holds a unique charm.”

The Bawe Island project is expected to significantly enhance Zanzibar’s tourism profile while driving economic growth in the region.