Former Slave market

Slaves were captured from various regions of East Africa, including mainland Tanzania, Kenya, and Mozambique. These individuals were often sold and transported through Zanzibar to other parts of the world, such as the Middle East, India, and the Americas. The slaves were primarily used for labour on plantations, in households, and on ships.

Stone Town, the historic center of Zanzibar City, was a hub for the slave trade. Tippu Tip, a prominent Arab-Swahili trader, was one of the key figures involved in the slave trade in Zanzibar during that era. The slaves were held in various locations, including underground chambers known as “bubu” and in the cramped conditions of dhows (traditional sailing vessels).

In 1873, the British declared a ban on the export of slaves from Zanzibar. This marked the beginning of efforts to suppress the slave trade in the region. In subsequent years, anti-slavery campaigns gained momentum, leading to the eventual abolition of the slave trade in Zanzibar in 1876.

Today, Zanzibar acknowledges its history and the impact of the slave trade. The island has several historical sites, such as the Slave Market and the Anglican Cathedral, which serve as reminders of this dark chapter. The Slave Market site, in particular, is a memorial that pays tribute to the victims of the slave trade and provides insights into the history of Zanzibar’s involvement in this brutal practice.