An annual institution for Zanzibar’s ocean economy
Tourism, the blue economy, logistics and investment create most of the islands' jobs, foreign exchange and opportunity. Until now, there was no credible, independent platform that recognised excellence across all of them.
Recognition that raises the standard
Every January, ZBEA brings together the leaders of Zanzibar’s ocean economy, government, investors and the creators who show the islands to the world, to celebrate the best among them.
The awards reward more than results. Each of the 38 categories is also judged on responsibility to people, culture and the ocean, and on the value it keeps in Zanzibar: local jobs, local suppliers, local ownership and skills.
ZBEA 2027 is the inaugural Edition. Its Gala takes place in Zanzibar in the second half of January 2027.
Three ZBEA values
Excellence
Outstanding results, quality and service, shown with evidence.
Responsibility
Care for people, culture and the ocean that sustains the islands.
Zanzibar value
Local jobs, local suppliers, local ownership and skills.
Independent, evidence-based, sealed
- Nominations. Open to companies, institutions, organisations and individuals operating in, or materially contributing to, Zanzibar. Entry is free.
- Eligibility check. The Secretariat checks every nomination against the Rules of Entry before it reaches the judges.
- Judging. An independent Judging Panel scores each entry against the published criteria. Judges declare any conflict of interest and step aside where one exists.
- Public vote. In three awards, a public vote adds a minority share of the score. The Panel’s score always carries the larger weight.
- Verification. Independent accountants check the tabulation. Results stay sealed until they are opened on stage.
No award is sold, promised or given in exchange for sponsorship or payment. Neither organiser, nor their directors, partners or owners, may win an award.
Who is behind ZBEA
The Zanzibar Blue Excellence Awards are organised in partnership by Karibu Events LTD and Lions Hub Solutions Limited, through an Organising Committee drawn from both. The ZBEA Secretariat is hosted by Karibu Events LTD.
The Judging Panel will be announced before nominations close.
- Secretariat
- ZBEA Secretariat, hosted by Karibu Events LTD
- Phone & WhatsApp
- +255 708 080 489 · +255 710 922 833
- Pillars
- Tourism & Hospitality · Blue Economy · Logistics & Trade · Investment