Zanzibar's Minister for Information, Arts, Culture and Sports, Dr. Riziki Pembe Juma, has urged residents to capitalize on the anticipated influx of visitors during AFCON 2027 by promoting the archipelago's cultural and artistic heritage as a means to generate income and drive development. Speaking on Saturday evening, Juma emphasized that the tournament presents an opportunity to harness Zanzibar's rich traditions, including traditional dances, artistic performances, and sports, to foster economic and social progress. 'We should use this opportunity through our culture, arts, and sports because they can bring development to our people,' she stated, highlighting the dual role of cultural preservation and economic exploitation.
The minister outlined the government's efforts to create a supportive environment for residents to engage in income-generating activities during the tournament, working alongside stakeholders to ensure accessibility. She called on communities to prepare for the surge in visitors while safeguarding Zanzibar's cultural identity. 'We are making these efforts today, and tomorrow we expect future generations to continue what we are doing today,' Juma said, underscoring the long-term vision of integrating cultural assets into the island's development strategy. The government's approach aligns with the theme of this year's festival, 'Our Culture is a Heritage for Our Generations; Use Cultural Opportunities at AFCON 2027,' which aims to reframe cultural practices as both a legacy and a catalyst for growth.
Juma stressed that cultural and artistic initiatives could strengthen community solidarity and attract global attention to Zanzibar's unique heritage. She noted that traditional performances and sporting events could serve as platforms to showcase the islands' identity while generating revenue. 'Traditional dances, artistic performances, and sports could play an important role in bringing people together, strengthening solidarity, and preserving the islands’ cultural heritage,' she explained. The minister also reiterated the importance of balancing commercialization with preservation, urging residents to collaborate with authorities to maintain authenticity while maximizing economic benefits.
The call comes as Zanzibar prepares for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which is expected to draw international visitors and elevate the archipelago's profile. Juma's remarks reflect a broader strategy to position culture as a cornerstone of sustainable development, ensuring that economic gains from the tournament translate into lasting benefits for local communities. By framing cultural assets as both a heritage to protect and an opportunity to exploit, the government seeks to align Zanzibar's identity with global tourism and investment trends, while reinforcing the value of its historical and artistic legacy.
Zanzibar's Minister Encourages Leveraging Culture and Arts for AFCON 2027 Economic Gains