Zanzibar government has continued to intensify diplomatic discussions with the United States and the United Kingdom aiming at convincing the two countries to reopen their consular offices on the islands.

The initiative is part of broader efforts by Zanzibar to strengthen international relations, improve trade links, and boost tourism as well as investment opportunities.

According to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, both countries previously had consular offices in Zanzibar but later closed them following global changes in their diplomatic structures, a move that was not unique to Tanzania.

He clarified that despite the closures, consular responsibilities for US and UK citizens are still being handled through their embassies in Dar es Salaam.

The government emphasises that Zanzibar has become increasingly important in regional trade, tourism, and cultural exchange, making the presence of consular offices more relevant for both foreign nationals and local citizens.These offices would help in offering direct consular services, supporting investors, and improving coordination in economic and cultural cooperation.The minister also referenced the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations of 1963 as the legal framework supporting such diplomatic engagements.While the United States currently has no consular presence in Zanzibar, discussions are still ongoing.The United Kingdom maintains limited representation through an honorary consul.Italy, on the other hand, still operates a vice-consulate in Kiembesamaki and has announced plans to upgrade it into a full Consulate General.This upgrade is expected to strengthen Italy’s involvement in Zanzibar’s tourism sector, one of the main sources of visitors to the islands.

Overall, the government remains optimistic that continued negotiations will eventually lead to stronger diplomatic presence from key partner countries.