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
June 23, 2026
Home of wellness opening in Fumba
Home of wellness opening in Fumba What do you expect from a good spa? State-of-the art professional treatments, an inspiring atmosphere, innovation. If this was somewhat hard to come by in Zanzibar, things might be about to change. Sebule, Swahili for living room, is a new beauty and wellness establishment set to open on 27
June 15, 2026
How do you want to live?
What affordable housing really means in Zanzibar Affordability is one of Zanzibar’s key challenges in urban development. Rent-to-own could be the golden strategy. And it could start in Fumba. According to official statistics, 10,000 new homes per year are needed on the island. What should these houses look like and how can they be financed,
June 15, 2026
The East Coast Surf is On
Warm water, wild wind and total freedom – Kiters’ heaven in Paje At first glance, Paje looks too beautiful to be sporty. The beach is absurdly white. The Indian Ocean glows in fifty shades of turquoise. Masai sell rubber sandals. But then the wind arrives. Suddenly the horizon explodes with colour: red kites, blue kites,
May 26, 2026
How Big is Africa
How big is Africa? Greenland as big as Africa? This widespread misconception goes back to a world map from 1569 — one that has shaped how millions picture the planet. A newer map shows how it could be done better. No land or sea map can truly portray the Earth as it is. The
May 19, 2026
Serving tea for 33 years
A fixture at the Forodhani night market for more than three decades, Babu Chai never runs out of tea and coffee. The menu, printed out and laminated, contains only three items: spice tea, ginger tea, and coffee. They do come in two different sizes though – in large mugs or in small paper cups. Babu
May 19, 2026
Lighten up your Life!
Candles & new Utulivu Spa The iced matcha got us – a candle with the scent of the trend tea of the season. We had to find out who is behind such wonderful creations. Quality scented candles are now available in Zanzibar. Mercy Odhiambo, a talented Kenyan who moved here three years ago, is producing
May 11, 2026
The A to Z of Shopping
S Shoes Unless you fancy high heels made of plastic, trustfully turn to Zanzibar’s last remaining shoemakers Sirtu $ Sons. You’ll find pure leather creations, from standard brown men and women sandals to new golden glitter designs in Hermes shape at their work- and retailshop on Gizenga Street Souvenirs Let’s rename it “meaningful souvenirs”, if
May 11, 2026
Sunset, Sand, Click!
Good to know THE PERFECT ZANZIBAR SHOT Best Instagram beach: Mtende beach Overcast days perfect for portraits Black-and-white photography does not mean just removing colour Ask for permission to photograph people Favourite motifs: architecture, people, culture Island storyteller and artist shares his best tricks for anyone who can’t resist a sunset – including a
May 11, 2026
100% MODERN Swahili Style
“We wanted an African-style house in Africa”, says a Swiss couple living in Fumba. So they furnished a simple, off-plan modern townhouse entirely with historic Swahili furniture. The authentic interior turned the unassuming bungalow into an oasis of calm and style. What does Swahili culture mean, is a question often asked by tourists and first-time
