Pemba bonanza aims to boost tourism and preserve cultural heritage
What you need to know:
- The four-day bonanza is part of broader efforts to promote sustainable tourism while preserving the island’s cultural legacy.
Pemba. The Pemba Tourist and Cultural Bonanza has kicked off, seeking to drive efforts to promote tourism and cultural heritage on the island.
According to the executive secretary of the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism (ZCT), Mr Arif Abbas, the bonanza has played a pivotal role since its inception in 2018.
He highlighted the inclusion of traditional sports as a key feature of the event.
“This initiative was established to enhance Pemba’s tourism sector, safeguard its cultural heritage and promote sports and cultural tourism. It has also provided a platform to celebrate the island’s rich traditions through unique activities such as dhow races, donkey parades, triathlons and duathlons,” he said on November 27, 2024, during the opening ceremony in Mkoani District
“This year’s bonanza has achieved international recognition with the participation of a Kenyan athlete, which supports the vision of Zanzibar’s President, Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, to position Pemba as a key destination on both national and global platforms,” Mr Abbas added.
Mkoani District Commissioner, Mr Hamad Omar Bakari, underscored the bonanza’s importance in preserving local heritage and bolstering tourism. He urged residents to take part actively.
“The event not only strengthens community cohesion but also serves as a window for the world to experience the beauty of Pemba,” said Mr Bakari.
The four-day bonanza is part of broader efforts to promote sustainable tourism while preserving the island’s cultural legacy.
During the dhow sailing competition, the top three winners were awarded Sh1.5 million, Sh1 million, and Sh700,000, respectively. All participants also received new sails for their dhows.
