The Zanzibar Insurance Corporation has released its platform on which all travellers to the island must obtain mandatory travel insurance.
Although it has been postponed by one month, the insurance will be mandatory from October 1 and will cost US$44 (R805).
Marjan Sandu, Director of AfricaStay, a tour operator that specialises in packaging Zanzibar, said it would affect the island’s market negatively. “It’s obviously not a good thing. The high-end, five-star clients will still go, but for the budget market and more three-star travellers, this will have a big impact.”
According to the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation, travellers will be covered for emergency medical expenses up to the value of US$50 000 (R886 150) and emergency medical evacuation within Zanzibar, to mainland Tanzania or to the country of residence.
The policy covers extension of stay for travellers who are not medically fit to fly and for one accompanying person. This includes a one-way economy ticket and US$80 (R1 420) a day. Travellers in compulsory quarantine due to pandemics or epidemics are covered to the value of US$100 (R1 770) a night.
Body repatriation costs are covered and accidental death on public transport is covered with US$20 000 (R354 460). Permanent disability is covered. Baggage delays are covered with US$25 (R440) per hour up to US$200 (R3 545). Theft, loss and damage to baggage within the care of the airline are covered with US$400 (R7 090).
Lawyer expenses and advances for bail are also covered as well as personal liability. Travellers are not covered for terrorism and are only covered on arrival in Zanzibar. The company added that there would be special packages available for families.
The insurance must be purchased via the Visit Zanzibar website.
Sandu said it was difficult to see how the government insurance company was going to handle such a large number of clients. “There are still a lot of doubts and question marks in the background.”
