Exim Bank Tanzania is strengthening Zanzibar’s tourism sector by partnering with key industry stakeholders, including Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA). The bank’s latest initiative allows tour operators to make secure and efficient digital payments, such as park fees, enhancing the ease of doing business in the tourism sector. Exim Bank has introduced advanced digital payment solutions at the Z-Summit 2025 in Tanzania, enhancing financial convenience for visitors and businesses. Travelers should secure their Tanzania eVisa for seamless entry.
Z-Summit 2025, A Platform for Innovation
Organized at SUZA University in Tunguu on February 19-20, the Z-Summit 2025 was a critical platform for government officials, business leaders, and players in the tourism and hospitality industries. The summit provided a dynamic platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas, discuss issues within the industry, and explore innovative solutions that would enhance Zanzibar's status as a world-class travel destination.
This annual summit has emerged as a driving force of strategic tourism growth, with decision-makers and investors convening to exchange the latest trends in infrastructure, hospitality, and finance technology. In this year, the focal point was digitizing financial transactions for the tourism sector to make it more efficient, transparent, and seamless for companies and travelers alike.
As a main sponsor for the third consecutive year, Exim Bank reaffirmed its mission to drive the tourism industry with innovative financial solutions and technology-driven banking products. The fact that the bank returned to the summit speaks volumes about its long-term strategy to help Zanzibar establish a more robust economic and tourism infrastructure through better access to financial instruments and electronic payment channels.
Digital Banking Solutions for Tourism Businesses
Z-Summit 2025 showcased Exim Bank's innovative digital banking solutions designed for the tourism sector. The bank introduced mobile banking, credit cards, and online payment facilities to enhance payment security and efficiency. With the growing demand for cashless transactions among tourists and businesses, Exim Bank is making cashless payments the norm in Zanzibar’s tourism industry, reducing cash-handling risks and streamlining business operations.
By leveraging technology, Exim Bank provides tourism enterprises with secure online platforms, mobile banking tools, and digital wallets to manage transactions and revenues efficiently. These solutions empower both small and large businesses to expand operations while promoting financial inclusion. With these advancements, Exim Bank is revolutionizing financial transactions and positioning Zanzibar as a top global tourist destination.
Digital Banking Solutions for Tourism Businesses
At Z-Summit 2025, Exim Bank’s Chief Finance Officerhighlighted how digital banking is making payments easier, safer, and faster for businesses and tourists in Zanzibar.
- Mobile Banking: Quick and Easy Access
Tourism businesses can now send and receive money, pay suppliers, and check account balances directly from their phones. Tourists also benefit by transferring funds and making payments easily without needing cash.
- Credit Cards: Secure and Convenient Payments
Exim Bank’s credit cards allow tourists to pay for hotels, restaurants, and tours without using cash. Businesses benefit from faster payments and reduced risks associated with handling cash. Some cards also offer rewards and fraud protection for extra security.
- Online Payment Platforms: Seamless Transactions
Tourism businesses can now accept online payments from customers worldwide. This makes hotel bookings, tour reservations, and ticket purchases easier. For tourists, it means a hassle-free experience without worrying about carrying cash.
Seamless Cashless Transactions for National Parks
Exim Bank has collaborated with TANAPA and NCAA to introduce a Tour Operators Account equipped with an Exim TANAPA Card. This initiative simplifies payments for park fees and other services, ensuring a cashless, secure, and efficient experience across Tanzania’s protected areas.
Recognizing the growing demand for accessible financial services, Exim Bank announced its plans to expand beyond its two existing branches in Zanzibar. This expansion aims to provide businesses with easier access to financing solutions, supporting infrastructure development, business growth, and operational efficiency in the tourism industry.
Supporting Economic Growth Through Tourism
Exim Bank continues to be a key financial partner of Zanzibar tourism businesses, providing vital support for business expansion, renovations, and new investments. By delivering tailor-made financial solutions, the bank facilitates businesses to secure funds for hotel construction, tour operations, and other ventures in the tourism industry, providing them with the finance they require to grow and become more competitive.
By forging strategic alliances with government agencies, tourism boards, and private investors, Exim Bank is aggressively building the financial infrastructure of the tourism sector. Its emphasis on digital transformation—such as frictionless payment solutions and mobile banking—means that tourism enterprises can conduct their businesses more efficiently and easily serve international travelers. By increasing its banking services in major tourist zones, Exim Bank is making a direct contribution to the economic growth of Zanzibar, positioning it as a more appealing destination for international travelers.
A Vision for Sustainable Tourism Development
The active participation of Exim Bank in Z-Summit 2025 is a demonstration of its alignment with sustainable tourism growth. By working closely with investors, businesses, and governmental organizations, the bank is helping to shape a long-term vision that balances economic success, environmental sustainability, and community engagement.
As tourism remains one of Zanzibar's main economic drivers, Exim Bank is supporting eco-friendly initiatives, digitalization, and financial inclusion for the development of the sector in a manner that benefits the people and future generations. With innovative solutions and sustainable tourism concepts, Exim Bank is helping Zanzibar emerge as one of the globe's leading travel destinations, creating new job opportunities, foreign investment, and long-term economic stability.
