Expansion of Zanzibar town and environmental degradation, 1850 to the present

This study examined the Expansion of Zanzibar Town and the Environmental Degradation from 1850 to the present. My research included interviews and critical analysis of archival sources. This study was conducted in Zanzibar Town and rural areas of Unguja. In this study it has been revealed that by 1700 Shangani, which is the heart of the Stone Town, was still a fishing village. Systematic expansion started after 1840 when many stone buildings were constructed during Arab domination. In 1890 Zanzibar become the British protocorate and town planning schemes were initiated in 1923 and 1958 respectively. After the 1964 revolution many urban development schemes were initiated at different times with the object of improving the quality of life of the people. All these and other factors led to physical expansion of Zanzibar Town. The town population was also exponentially expanding and increased pressure on the dwindling natural resources, particularly forests. As a consequence the nearby forests were clear felled in obtaining fuel wood and charcoal. It is estimated that these materials accounted for 81% of total energy utilization in the town. It was also found out that while 40% of the Island is covered by coral rag area, the town was expanding in green and most fertile soils of the island. Finally, it was revealed that the sewerage of Zanzibar. Town was discharged into the sea without proper treatment. It was estimated that 2200 cubic meter of wastewater was discharged into the ocean per day.