Panelist & Speakers
PANELIST & SPEAKERS
SPEAKERS
H.E. Christine Grau
Christine Grau is the European Union Ambassador to Tanzania and the East African Community. She officially assumed her role on 1 September 2023. With an extensive career in European diplomacy, Ambassador Grau has held various positions within the European Commission and the European External Action Service, specializing in external relations, enlargement and neighborhood policies, migration, human security, and justice and home affairs. Her previous postings include Guinea-Conakry and Romania, where she played a key role in strengthening EU partnerships and advancing policy priorities. As the head of the EU Delegation to Tanzania, she leads efforts to deepen political, economic, and development cooperation between the European Union and Tanzania.
Karina DZIALOWSKA
Karina DZIALOWSKA is the Head of Economics and Governance European Union-Tanzania Delegation. She is the Economic and Governance Adviser, responsible for: European Commission assistance on good governance, budget support, public finance management, macroeconomic stability, trade, private sector development, CSOs and accountability, justice and fight against corruption, electoral assistance and civic education, employment and youth, culture, democratisation and human rights.
Marloes Hamelink
Marloes Hamelink is the Executive Director of the European Business Group (EUBG) in Tanzania, where she spearheads networking activities and fosters collaboration between European organizations, the Tanzanian government, and European embassies. With a strong focus on enhancing business relationships and facilitating impactful discussions, she is dedicated to strengthening the European business community in Tanzania. With a background in anthropology and qualitative research, Marloes brings a deep understanding of intercultural collaboration and organizational dynamics. Her expertise helps EUBG navigate the complexities of the Tanzanian business environment, ensuring that European companies receive the support, advocacy, and connections they need to thrive. She works closely with stakeholders to address business challenges, promote trade opportunities, and drive strategic engagement between the private sector and policymakers.
Mr Sheha Mjaja Juma
Sheha Mjaja Juma is an experienced environmental professional with over 30 years of public service in Zanzibar, Tanzania, and holds a Master’s Degree in Environmental Technology and Management. His career has been dedicated to the intersection of environmental sustainability and development, where he has applied his strong analytical skills and technical expertise in environmental technology, management, and planning to address complex challenges. In addition to his technical competencies, Mr. Sheha is proficient in environmental planning and management, environmental and social impact assessments, waste management, and pollution prevention and control. His leadership and administrative capabilities have enabled him to effectively drive sustainable environmental policies and initiatives. Currently, he serves as the Director General of the Zanzibar Environmental Management Authority (ZEMA) under the First Vice President’s Office, Zanzibar.
PANELIST
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM
Ms. Hafsa H. Mbamba
Tourism Manager, Presidential Delivery Bureau (PDB)
Modarator
Graham Stewart Leslie
Graham Stewart Leslie is the Executive Chairman of HAZ and a highly experienced leader in tourism and economic development. He previously served as Chairman and CEO in the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), leading multi-sector projects across 30+ countries with a workforce of over 80,000 people and managing annual investments exceeding $1 billion. His career includes leadership roles at Serena Hotels, Conrad International Hotels, Hilton Worldwide, Exclusive Hotels, and Kempinski Hotels & Resorts. He has also spearheaded national master plans for tourism investment in Mozambique, Kyrgyzstan, Poland, Syria, Pakistan, Zanzibar, and other regions, focusing on sustainability, conservation, and economic transformation. Through HAZ, he promotes high-yield, low-impact, inclusive tourism development in Zanzibar, working with both private sector stakeholders and the government to enhance investment opportunities.
Diana Körner
Diana Körner is a technical advisor for sustainable tourism working with the Ministry of Tourism and Heritage on behalf of Palladium. She holds a Master of Science in Strategic Tourism Management and has been based in the Indian Ocean region since 2016. Diana is the co-founder of the Seychelles Sustainable Tourism Foundation, a former Marketing Manager for Chumbe Island Coral Park, and an accredited trainer for the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. Her work focuses on developing and implementing sustainable tourism strategies to foster environmentally responsible and community-driven tourism initiatives.
Mr. Arif Abbas Manji
Arif Abbas Manji is the Executive Secretary of the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism, leading efforts to position Zanzibar as a diverse and globally competitive destination. With a focus on product diversification and community inclusivity, he is expanding the region’s tourism beyond traditional attractions to include heritage tours, ecotourism, cultural experiences, and adventure tourism. Previously, he served as Head of Tourism at the Presidential Delivery Bureau, where he played a key role in strategic projects and collaborations to enhance Zanzibar's global visibility. His leadership prioritizes sustainability, corporate excellence, and community-driven tourism, ensuring that tourism growth benefits residents and preserves Zanzibar’s rich heritage. Under his guidance, the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism is evolving into a more corporate-driven and innovative organization, setting new standards for the industry.
ICT and DIGITALIZATION
Dr. Twahir M. Khalfan
Director of Research and Policy Engagement - Zanzibar Research Centre for Socio-Economic and Policy Analysis (ZRCP)
Modarator
Hannah Simmons
Hannah Simmons is an education specialist with a decade of experience leveraging technology to drive impactful education reforms in East Africa. As Co-Country Lead at EdTech Hub Tanzania, she oversees a $10 million portfolio, applying agile methodologies to enhance government-owned digital learning systems. Her expertise includes teacher professional development, digital education research, and high-level partnerships. An alumna of the University of Oxford and SOAS, she has designed tech-driven education interventions, chaired national education conferences, and advised policymakers on integrating edtech for scalable learning solutions.
Fahmin Ali
Fahmin Ali is the Commercial Manager at Zanlink, with over eight years of experience in the IT industry. He started his career as a NOC Engineer at Six Telecoms Company before joining Zanlink, where he later transitioned into a commercial role as Key Account Manager. With a strong technical background and a passion for expanding business opportunities, he is committed to fostering partnerships and driving company growth. Fahmin holds a bachelor's degree in Electronics and Communications Engineering from Acharya Institute of Technology, Bangalore.
Talib Sheriff
Talib Sheriff is a Country Manager at Ericsson Tanzania. Technical oriented hard working individual with a passion for learning new things. Easy to get along with, and a simple approach to life. Excellent team player with a passion for problem solving and innovation
Paul Bomani
Paul Bomani has over a decade of experience in digital transformation and digital identity across East Africa. His expertise focuses on building trust in the digital economy through ID verification and real-time background checks. He has led projects transitioning customer registrations from physical to electronic for governments, banks, telecom companies, and fintechs across Tanzania, Mozambique, Lesotho, and Sudan, verifying over 65 million identities. His work ensures regulatory compliance and enhances customer trust across the African digital landscape.
FISHERIES AND AQUACULTURE
Mr. Chris Horrill
....
Modarator
Dr. Godfred Ameyaw Asiedu
Dr. Godfred Ameyaw Asiedu is the Regional Coordinator for Anglophone Africa at the Fisheries Transparency Initiative (FiTI). He is responsible for promoting transparency and participation in marine fisheries management across multiple countries, engaging stakeholders from government, private sector, and civil society. A fisheries and ocean governance expert, he has extensive experience in policy advisory roles, having worked with USAID, FAO, and the Ministry of Fisheries in Ghana. Dr. Asiedu holds a PhD in Fisheries Management from the University of Wollongong, Australia, and has a background in aquatic and fisheries ecology.
Nancy Iraba
Nancy Iraba is a marine scientist and the CEO of Healthy Seaweed Co. Ltd (Seaweed Café), a social enterprise pioneering seaweed-based food innovations while supporting 300 women seaweed farmers in Tanzania. Under her leadership, the enterprise has won multiple awards, including the Social Impact Award at the Africa Green Revolution Conference. She is recognized as one of Tanzania’s 100 Changemakers of 2024 and sits on the Advisory Board of the University of Dar es Salaam, contributing to blue economy curriculum reforms.
Mondy Muhando
Mondy Muhando is a Marine Scientist and Aquaculture practitioner with over six years of experience working with both governmental and non-governmental scientific teams. Specializing in seaweed and sea cucumber aquaculture as well as tropical aquatic ecology, she plays a pivotal role in advancing blue economy initiatives in Zanzibar. Her expertise has been instrumental in developing sustainable practices within the fisheries and aquaculture sectors, where she applies her scientific background to drive innovative and environmentally sound strategies. In her current role as the Director for Blue Economy Development and Coordination at the Ministry of Blue Economy and Fisheries in Zanzibar, Mondy leads efforts to enhance resource management and promote sustainable growth in marine industries. Her work includes training seaweed farmers in best management practices and advocating for the conservation of marine environments.
MARITIME LOGISTICS
....
Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands
Modarator
Pepijn Verstand
Pepijn Verstand is the Zanzibar Special Maritime Envoy, bringing extensive experience in maritime strategy, security, and fleet management. He began his career as a Maritime Officer serving as both a Deck and Engineer officer aboard passenger vessels before transitioning to fleet management. Over the years, he has held director roles in fleet operations, newbuilding projects, and offshore companies, including P&ONedlloyd (now Maersk), Fugro, and Boluda. In 2011, he founded the Centre for Blue Economy, Maritime Strategy, and Security and later served as a Commander in the Royal Netherlands Navy, advising on public-private maritime collaborations. In 2024, he was appointed as Zanzibar’s Special Maritime Envoy to enhance maritime development and security.
Patricia Ngunjiri
Patricia Ngunjiri is an accomplished customer service and marine operations professional with 15 years of experience. She holds a degree in Business Management and Hospitality and Tourism Management from Mt. Kenya University. Patricia began her career in the hospitality industry before transitioning to Azam Marine, where she has progressively advanced to her current role as Reservations and Guest Relations Manager in Zanzibar. She has vast expertise in passenger, vessel, cargo, and parcel operations, as well as marine logistics and port operations. Her role involves coordinating ferry services, ensuring maritime safety compliance, and managing customer relations, working closely with stakeholders to enhance efficiency in the marine transport sector.
Mr. Akif Ali Khamis
Mr. Akif Ali Khamis is the Director General of Zanzibar Ports Corporation (ZPC), leading efforts to modernize and transform the country's maritime sector. At just 32 years old, he is the youngest Director General in Tanzania, symbolizing innovation and progressive leadership. With a Bachelor’s degree in Mechatronic Engineering and a Master’s in Petroleum, Energy, Economics, and Finance, he brings a diverse academic background that strengthens his ability to drive strategic improvements in port operations and infrastructure. His career spans both the private and public sectors, with experience in operations management, international procurement, and real estate development before transitioning to public service. He previously served as a Junior Engineer in the Department of Energy Zanzibar and later became Head of ICT at AURA (Zanzibar Utilities Regulatory Authority). Rising quickly through leadership ranks, he was appointed Deputy Director General and later Director General of ZPC. His tenure has been marked by a strong focus on technological innovation, sustainable development, and economic growth, positioning Zanzibar as a key player in regional maritime trade.
WASTE MANAGEMENT AND CIRCULAR ECONOMY
Mr Austin Makani
....
Modarator
George Mark Julius Mkwaya
George Mkwaya is a Business Development Manager (BDS) with six years of experience in the waste management sector in Zanzibar. He holds a degree in Business Management and Administration from ICM – UK, along with additional training in waste management, project development, entrepreneurship, and leadership. He has worked with municipal councils, the Zanzibar Ports Authority, private sector companies, and international organizations such as AMREF, EU, USAID, Global Funds, AFRIYAN, and ILO. George specializes in tendering, project execution, and improving waste management systems through collaborations with local governments and international NGOs.
Suzanne Degeling
Suzanne Degeling is a Dutch-Tanzanian professional with extensive experience in tourism, education, and social enterprise development. She is the Founder and Director of Kawa Training Center, which focuses on tourism education, women empowerment, and responsible tourism. Suzanne holds a Tourism College degree, with additional qualifications in tour guiding, hospitality, and sustainable tourism. With over 24 years of experience in the industry, she has led international projects in collaboration with organizations like TUI Care Foundation and the European Union. She is passionate about curriculum development, youth empowerment, and preserving Zanzibar’s cultural heritage and environment. In addition to her work in education, Suzanne has managed her own travel company and worked as a tour leader across Africa.
Ms. Khadija Said Simai
Khadija Said Simai, has built a distinguished career in public service, health policy, and governance. She pursued her early education in Zanzibar before earning a Bachelor's Degree in Regional Planning from the Institute of Rural Development Planning in Dodoma (2000–2003) and later a Master of Science in Development Policy from Mzumbe University (2009–2011). Her commitment to continuous learning is evident through specialized training in health management, gender equality, governance, and budgetary control, including programs at institutions like Harvard and international training in Denmark, Korea, and Zimbabwe. Her technical expertise has contributed significantly to projects such as developing the National Nutrition Strategic Plan, the Zanzibar Health Sector Strategic Plan III, and consulting on the East African Community's regional health policies. She has held key leadership positions throughout her career, including Chief Planning Officer at Zanzibar's Ministry of Health and Director of West B Municipal Council since 2021.
RENEWABLE ENERGY
Ms. Halima Wagao
Director Special Economic Zone, Zanzibar Investment Promotion Authority (ZIPA)
Modarator
John Okoro
John Okoro is an international expert in business and project development, specializing in clean and renewable energy. With experience spanning over 30 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa and 40 globally, he has contributed to projects exceeding $1 billion in value. John is a recognized thought leader in renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure in emerging markets, frequently invited as a keynote speaker at prestigious institutions such as OECD, ICAO, PMI, and the World Mining Congress. Fluent in English and French, he continues to drive impactful and sustainable energy solutions worldwide.
Joyce Ho
Joyce Ho joined Release by Scatec in 2022, focusing on developing solar PV leasing solutions for utility customers across Africa. Her work contributes to the expansion of clean energy generation capacity in the region. Before transitioning to renewable energy, she had an extensive career in maritime shipping, holding various commercial roles. Most recently, she was responsible for managing assets and contracts for a global fleet of LNG carriers and floating gas solutions.
Pepijn Steemers
Pepijn Steemers is a renewable energy expert with over 16 years of leadership in innovative solar energy projects across East Africa. As the Director and Co-Founder of Greenlink-ReGen, he specializes in negotiation, business planning, renewable energy solutions, business development, and marketing strategy. With a strong background in international business management and sustainable agriculture, he holds degrees from HES Amsterdam and Imperial College London.
Eng. Said H. Mdungi
Eng. Said H. Mdungi serves as the Director for Energy and Minerals at Zanzibar’s Ministry of Water, Energy, and Minerals, where he leads efforts to advance energy policies and mineral sector development. With extensive expertise in energy management and natural resource optimization, he is committed to supporting Zanzibar’s sustainable energy transition and ensuring the responsible utilization of its mineral resources. His work plays a crucial role in shaping Zanzibar’s energy landscape, promoting clean and renewable energy solutions to drive long-term economic and environmental benefits.
Mr. Haji Haji
With extensive experience in power security, strategic energy delivery, and infrastructure management, Mr. Haji Haji, the General Manager of Zanzibar Electricity Corporation (ZECO), leads initiatives to enhance electricity reliability, sustainability, and efficiency in Zanzibar. He oversees complex power security projects, balancing competing priorities while ensuring safe, high-quality electricity services that support the Zanzibar Blue Economy. His role involves strategic planning, investment acquisition, and policy implementation, contributing to Zanzibar’s long-term energy security and infrastructure resilience. He also plays a key role in securing external investments, identifying potential investors, and managing energy-related initiatives that drive economic and environmental sustainability.
TAX REGIME IN TANZANIA
April Ernest – Novus
....
Modarator
Slim S. Abdalla
Slim S. Abdalla is a seasoned legal expert with over 15 years of experience in corporate and commercial law, litigation, and legal drafting. He is currently a Partner in Charge at Rive & Co’s Zanzibar office, specializing in key sectors such as aviation, real estate, and tourism. Slim holds an LLM in Corporate Finance Law from the University of Westminster and an LLB from Zanzibar University. He has previously served as Managing Partner at Sepia Attorney & Associates and as Corporate Secretary at Zanzibar Airports Authority. A former President of the Zanzibar Law Society, he is recognized for his leadership and legal expertise.
Joseph Waziri
Joseph Waziri is a distinguished tax consultant with over 15 years of experience in tax consulting, compliance, and strategic tax planning. He currently serves as the Tax Partner at Breakthrough Attorneys in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. His expertise spans multiple industries, including banking, energy, telecommunications, mining, agriculture, and hospitality across East and South Africa. Previously, he was Head of Tax at Vodacom Tanzania PLC, where he played a key role in securing VAT exemptions on mobile device supplies, significantly benefiting the telecommunications sector. Joseph has also held senior roles at PwC Tanzania and PwC South Africa, advising multinational corporations on complex tax matters. He actively contributes to national tax reforms and business policy discussions through organizations such as the European Business Group, American Chamber of Commerce, and South African Business Forum. He has also supported Tanzania’s Vision 2025 through tax initiatives and policy improvements, demonstrating strong leadership and a forward-thinking approach.
Leon Jamann
Leon Jamann is the co-CEO of Zanj Spice Limited, an exporter of fairly traded and organic spices from Zanzibar. He is passionate about ensuring the social sustainability and traceability of the food industry from farm to fork which benefits both local farming communities as well as end consumers. Leon holds a Master in Public Policy from Sciences Po Paris and his previous work experience includes duty posts at the World Bank as well as CIMMYT, the international maize and wheat improvement center, where he led projects in both in Ethiopia and Zimbabwe. In his free time, Leon enjoys running and is an avid hiker.
Getrude Sway
A Certified Public Accountant, dedicated to financial management. Beginning my career in the accounting sector, I now aspire to lead financial strategies for projects and companies across various fields. Proficient in project coordination, business analysis and financial audits, I have achieved notable accomplishments such as optimizing budgets, managing and providing accurate financial projections and reports