✈️ #aviadev2025 | Day 2 | Key Takeaways from President Hussein Ali Mwinyi’s Opening Speech Zanzibar’s leadership is betting big on aviation and tourism to drive transformation. Speaking at the opening of AviaDev2025, President Hussein Ali Mwinyi outlined a bold vision for regional air connectivity and sustainable growth. Here’s what stood out 👇 1️⃣ “Zanzibar is open for business” – The island is ready to welcome aviation, tourism, and infrastructure investments. 2️⃣ Tourism = 30% of GDP – Making aviation a vital economic pillar. 3️⃣ Post-COVID rebound – Visitor numbers are up, hotel investments are booming, and international airlines are taking notice. 4️⃣ Airport expansion in motion – Major upgrades underway at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport. 5️⃣ Focus on regional connectivity – Especially with Pemba and the wider Indian Ocean region. 6️⃣ Greener aviation – Sustainability and climate resilience are now key aviation goals. 7️⃣ Pro-investment reforms – From PPPs to regulatory upgrades, the government is creating an enabling ecosystem. 8️⃣ Regional hub ambition – Zanzibar wants to be a leading aviation and tourism gateway. 9️⃣ Strengthened partnerships – Cooperation with African airlines and global aviation bodies is a top priority. 🔟 Zanzibar is an experience – Delegates were invited to explore the island’s cultural heritage, beaches, and hospitality. ➡️ The message is clear: Zanzibar is not just a destination — it's a strategic partner for Africa’s aviation future. To recall, Zanzibar Airport is currently served by +440 weekly flights, offering +26,000 seats and connecting the archipelago to domestic, regional, and international destinations, according to Cirium data. Airlines operating into Zanzibar include Discover Airlines, Air France, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Uganda Airlines, Oman Air, and flydubai, but also a many regional carriers such as AURIC AIR SERVICES LIMITED, Precision Air Tanzania, @coastal aviation, Flightlink, among others. #zanzibar #aviadev #africanaviation #airconnectivity #tourisminvestment #airportdevelopment #greenaviation #aviationleadership #newsaero #ppp #indianoceanhub #aviationafrica #smarttourism #zanzibarrising