The Tanzanian government is stepping up efforts to convince the United States and United Kingdom to reopen their consular offices in Zanzibar.Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, told the National Assembly that these offices are important for enhancing trade, tourism, and cultural ties.He explained that the closures of US and UK offices were part of global diplomatic restructuring, not specifically because of Zanzibar.Currently, consular services for Zanzibar are managed from Dar es Salaam.The Italian Vice-Consulate in Zanzibar will be upgraded to a full Consulate General, with Stefano Totisco appointed as the new Consul General.This upgrade is expected to strengthen Italy-Zanzibar tourism relations.The UK maintains a limited presence through an honorary consul, while US negotiations are ongoing.Ambassador Kombo also noted the need to improve public awareness about the Italian consulate location and services.

Overall, the government emphasizes the strategic value of maintaining consular representation from major partners to support economic, tourism, and diplomatic cooperation.