CHICOP participated in the Zanzibar Small Islands Investment and Marine Conservation Forum. The event was organised by USAID Heshimu Bahari and Zanzibar Investment Promotion Authority (ZIPA). It brought together investors and stakeholders to network and share insights on developments in the Zanzibar archipelago and the critical role of marine conservation. 200 participants were invited.
His Excellency Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, was the guest of honour. The programme was enriched by engaging panel discussions and presentations and the opening address was delivered by Hon. Shariff A. Shariff, Minister of State. CHICOP Director Sibylle Riedmiller participated in a panel discussion with Dr. Makame Makame, Director of Conservation, Ministry of Blue Economy and Fisheries, and Graham Stewart Leslie, Chairman of the Hotel Association of Zanzibar and representative of Pungume Island.
In front of His Excellency Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, Sibylle Riedmiller gave a 20-minute speech highlighting CHICOP’s early years, its outstanding eco-lodge operations, marine park management and sustainability efforts. Chumbe Island was presented as a best case scenario for private MPA management and ecotourism in Zanzibar. Apart from Mnemba Island, Chumbe is the only small island in the archipelago with more than two decades of proven experience in guest operations and private island management, and the only island in the archipelago that operates on a non-profit basis. We are very proud and honoured to have been part of this forum and to have shared our commitment to marine conservation and sustainable tourism in Zanzibar with all participants.
photo credits: ZIPA/ USAID Heshimu Bahari
