October 6, 2026
Just Discovered RIU
3 RIU, one formula The latest: RIU Palace Swahili Next to each other on Zanzibar’s best beach in Nungwi, three RIU hotels with a combined 2,600 beds are now the largest chain on the island – controversial due to sheer size. The new RIU Palace Swahili is the most premium of the Zanzibar trio, with
September 28, 2026
Mortgages made easy
Mortgages made easy By Chantal Ben Wanting to buy a house, but lacking money? The Tanzania Commercial Bank (TCB) is rolling out a mortgage scheme with a 10 per cent interest rate – in an African context, a real fair deal. The extraordinary bank service, demanded for years, is the result of a partnership between
September 23, 2026
The Magic of Seaweed
How the miraculous ocean product became a stylish bestseller Mwani means seaweed in Swahili. And Mwani is the first company on the island to turn the traditional ocean harvest into a lucrative, modern cosmetic business. Everybody’s darling in Zanzibar is the blue economy. But few know what it is, or could be. At Mwani in
September 21, 2026
New Buses: Green & Comfy
Impressive first electric buses have started rolling through Zanzibar on two routes. They are not only more comfortable but ecological. Modern bus stations appeared first, then the large smart buses in white-green design followed, officially inaugurated at the end of July by none other than Zanzibar’s president. For now, they serve two routes, from Stone
September 15, 2026
More Soul for the Island
First fully serviced holiday apartments close to town and the airport The ChillFactor A man-made lagoon, climate-conscious apartment buildings, natural interiors, lots of space, and mingling with islanders – discovering Zanzibar on your own terms It sounds like the perfect mixture between urbanity and nature: right on the west coast, only 25 minutes away from
August 17, 2026
Nature's Pharmacy
Ask Dr. Jenny Dietzold Readers’ questions answered by our own medical expert Healthy Budget Rolf Speitel, 67 Dear Dr. Jenny, I heard that you are offering memberships for your Urban Care clinic in Fumba, and that homewoners can benefit. Kindly specify, what is the purpose of the unusual initiative and whom would you advise to
August 11, 2026
ART “Total freedom”
A rising Nigerian artist explores female experience and self-empowerment in her art available at Forster Gallery. About her arrival in Zanzibar, the artist said: “The moment I stepped out of the plane and felt the warm breeze, it was complete freedom.” Yakno Abasi Ene recently held a sales vernissage at Forster Gallery in Mbweni, where
July 27, 2026
FuTopia 2026
Zanzibar is in full swing again. June to August means action: kitesurfing in Paje! International live music at the Fumba Town festival FuTopia on 8 and 9 August! And because there is so much to do, THE FUMBA TIMES is launching a new Mambo event calendar on page 3. Pick your favs, join the fun!
July 20, 2026
Tanzania’s Winelands
Discovering the hidden vineyards around Dodoma By Michael Gerber Tanzanian wine, besides being rare, used to have a bad reputation: too sweet, immature, not refined enough. This is changing. Our reporter explored the vineyards around Dodoma – and returned to Zanzibar not only with precious bottles but also a revised opinion in his luggage.
July 13, 2026
Fumba Times | Mambo – What´s on?
Event Highlights: Our team of passionate explorers has ventured out far and wide to bring you the hidden gems, buzzing hotspots, and must-attend events that locals love and the world hasn‘t found yet. If not mentioned otherwise, regular events take place every month. Not yet listed? Mail us your events for the upcoming Sept-Nov 2026
July 7, 2026
THE WOMAN who got into Forbes
Successful against the odds – that’s how you could describe Miranda Naiman. The 43-year old founder of consulting firm Empower in Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar has a lot to say about common business traps, Zanzibar and women careers in Africa. We want to photograph her at her desk but she laughingly declines: “I don’t
June 30, 2026
“Zanzibar is a unique brand”
New generation reshaping the island – Transparency builds trust Zanzibar is a brand, no longer an undiscovered paradise. But is the island heading in the right direction? Two leading experts from tourism and real estate discuss. Zanzibar is transforming at extraordinary speed. Luxury residences rise where palm groves once stood. Tourist arrivals are nearing one
