The historic heart of Zanzibar, Stone Town, is facing an existential threat as rising sea levels and extreme weather erode its foundations. Once a thriving hub of trade and culture, this UNESCO World Heritage site now struggles to protect its rich history from the encroaching tides.
For centuries, Stone Town has stood as a testament to the diverse cultural influences that shaped Zanzibar. Its labyrinthine alleys, carved wooden doors, and coral-stone buildings reflect a unique blend of Arab, Persian, Indian, and African heritage. But today, these structures are at risk as the relentless ocean slowly claims more land.
“I’ve seen the ocean creep closer every year. When I was a boy, the beach was much wider, but now the water reaches our doorsteps,” said Ali Seif Hamad, a lifelong resident.
The effects of climate change are not only visible in the crumbling architecture but also in the lives of the people who depend on tourism and fishing—two industries crucial to the local economy.
“This is a very serious problem, but we are taking action to mitigate the effects,” said Ali Said Bakar, director of the Stone Town Preservation and Development Authority. Efforts include reinforcing seawalls, restoring historic buildings, and involving the local community in ecological projects like mangrove restoration.
International organizations, including UNESCO, have stepped in to support restoration initiatives, training local artisans to preserve traditional construction techniques. Beyond physical conservation, there is also a push to document and safeguard Stone Town’s cultural heritage—its music, cuisine, and oral traditions—to ensure its legacy endures.
Despite the challenges, residents remain resilient. “Stone Town has faced many difficulties—slavery, colonization, revolution. We’ve survived it all. We’ll survive this too,” Bakar affirmed.
As the battle against rising seas continues, efforts to protect this historic town persist, ensuring that future generations can still walk its storied streets.