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Jambojet launches Mombasa-Zanzibar route in boost for tourism, trade

Jambojet plans to fly four times a week on the new route, and eventually introduce daily flights. (Photo: File)

By Farhiya Hussein | Monday, July 1, 2024

This milestone will enhance connectivity, easing the movement of people and goods, thus boosting tourism and trade.

Tourism and trade between Kenya and Tanzania are set for a significant boost as Africa's premier low-cost airline, Jambojet, has launched the Mombasa-Zanzibar route.

This milestone will enhance connectivity, easing the movement of people and goods.

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"This is our second hub after Nairobi and our first international route from Mombasa, with more to follow. Our goal is to support our partners, including the county governments, hotels in Mombasa and Zanzibar, and the ministries of tourism in both regions. Through these collaborations, we aim to grow together," Jambojet Managing Director and Chief Executive Office, Karanja Ndegwa, said at the launch.

He added that the airline, which has been working closely with local stakeholders, was charging Sh28,400 (about TSh582,310) for a return flight, approximately 30 per cent lower than current market prices.

Jambojet plans to fly four times a week on the new route, and eventually introduce daily flights.

You can fly return from Mombasa to Zanzibar from Kes 28,420. If you're flying from Nairobi, you would need to fly Nairobi to Mombasa and then Mombasa to Zanzibar 🤩 pic.twitter.com/MFQShJzhTa
— FlyJambojet (@FlyJambojet) July 1, 2024

Serena Hotel Group CEO Ashish Sharm, said, "This brings a lot of collaboration and business flow between the two countries. We had a similar collaboration with Kenya Airways two weeks ago for their flight to Maputo, and we look forward to this new partnership."

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir recounted the discussions that led to the new route, saying, "We had this conversation about a year ago so today marks a significant milestone. Mombasa, being the second hub of Jambojet, has a lot of untapped potential. Moi International Airport is underutilised, and one of our manifesto goals is to attract more international flights. This route will reduce the burden of passing through Nairobi and bring more tourists directly to Mombasa."

He added, "One of the major destinations for Tanzanians is Mombasa, and now they will find it easier to come directly from Tanzania into Kenya to enjoy the shared culture."

Coast Regional Airport Manager at the Kenya Airports Authority, Abel Gogo, expressed the airport's enthusiasm for the new route.

"We are extremely excited to witness the launch of Jambojet's Mombasa-Zanzibar route. This adds to our portfolio of international routes and we hope for continued growth and operations."

Tanzanian High Commissioner to Kenya, Bernard Kibese, also commended Jambojet, saying, "I thank Jambojet for inaugurating the first trip to Zanzibar and for choosing Zanzibar as their preferred destination."

He said the new route is expected to open up more opportunities for trade and tourism, strengthening the economic ties between Kenya and Tanzania and enhancing regional integration.