A Kenyan national has been arrested in Zanzibar alongside two other foreign nationals for allegedly conducting tour and excursion activities in violation of the island’s tourism laws.
The three were apprehended on August 18 during an operation by the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism (ZCT) in collaboration with the Immigration Department.
They have been identified as Esther Mutheu Samuka, Mukembo Emmanuel and Karungi Scovia.
Foreign Nationals Accused of Breaking Tourism Laws
According to a public notice issued by ZCT, the three were allegedly found conducting tour and excursion operations reserved for Zanzibaris.
The commission said their activities contravened Section 19(b) of the Zanzibar Tourism Act No. 6 of 2009, which reserves tour operations and shuttle boat businesses for Zanzibaris.
The law is intended to protect certain tourism-related businesses for local citizens and regulate participation by foreign nationals in Zanzibar’s tourism sector.
ZCT Warns Unlicensed Tour Operators
ZCT said the arrests were made jointly with immigration authorities and that those found to have violated the law would face appropriate legal and administrative action.
The commission urged residents and tourists visiting Zanzibar to ensure they use licensed and legally recognised tour operators when booking excursions, tours and other tourism-related services.
ZCT further warned that it would continue taking action against individuals conducting tourism businesses in breach of Zanzibar’s laws and regulations.
The arrests come amid efforts by authorities to enforce regulations governing the island’s lucrative tourism industry and ensure that reserved tourism businesses remain compliant with local laws.
