ZANZIBAR, Feb. 25 -- A TOURIST guide waiting for clients at Stone Towns seafront is often the first face visitors meet in Zanzibar, a handshake that for many families translates into school fees paid and food on the table.

It is this human connection behind the tourism boom that took centre stage during the Zanzibar Association of Tour Operators (ZATO) annual general meeting.

Speaking recently Zanzibars Minister for Blue Economy and Fisheries, Mr Masoud Ali Mohammed said the government of Zanzibar recognises the private sector as a key driver of the islands tourism growth.

He described ZATO as a crucial government partner in raising service standards, protecting operators interests, and marketing Zanzibar internationally.

“This ...