Zanzibar Launches $12 Million Heritage Restoration Project to Preserve Historic Landmarks

Zanzibar

Zanzibar has taken a major step toward preserving its historic legacy, signing a $12 million agreement with Infinity Developments to restore some of the archipelago’s most important cultural landmarks. The project, backed by both public and private investment, is intended to safeguard centuries-old sites while strengthening Zanzibar’s position as one of Africa’s leading heritage tourism destinations.

The restoration effort will focus on several iconic locations, including the Old Fort, the High Court Museum and a series of historic bathhouses such as the Hamamni Persian Baths, Forodhani Hamam Baths, Kidichi Hamam Baths and Kizimbani Hamam Baths. These structures, many of which reflect Zanzibar’s deep Arab, Persian and Swahili influences, are considered central to the islands’ cultural identity.

Officials say the work will go beyond basic repairs. Plans include restoring original architectural features, improving infrastructure and upgrading visitor facilities to make the sites more accessible and engaging. The initiative will also support cultural programming designed to bring new life to historic spaces while ensuring they remain protected for future generations.

The agreement was signed between the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar and Infinity Developments, a firm involved in cultural and heritage projects. Government officials described the partnership as a milestone in their effort to place cultural preservation at the center of economic development. They say protecting heritage sites is not only about honoring the past but also about creating opportunities for jobs, tourism and local businesses.

Aboud Suleiman Jumbe, a senior official in Zanzibar’s Ministry of Tourism and Heritage, said the project reflects a broader strategy to use heritage as a foundation for long-term economic growth. Tourism is already a key pillar of Zanzibar’s economy, and leaders believe restoring historic sites will strengthen the islands’ appeal to international visitors.

Other officials noted that the investment demonstrates Zanzibar’s commitment to attracting private partners to support development. They expect the restoration work to create employment, encourage entrepreneurship and generate broader economic activity tied to tourism.

Infinity Developments’ chief executive, Samuel Saba, described the project as both a preservation effort and an investment in the future. He said Zanzibar’s historic sites are globally significant and that restoring them will help create spaces that inspire education, tourism and community pride.

For Zanzibar, the project represents more than the repair of aging buildings. It reflects a wider shift toward protecting cultural heritage while using it as a driver of economic growth. By combining government oversight with private investment, officials hope to ensure that Zanzibar’s historic landmarks remain both preserved and relevant in a rapidly changing world.