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Here to help for the holidays
The holiday season is approaching. Traditionally it is a time for families to get together, strengthen bonds, and create lasting memories. It is a privilege that Precision Air gets the opportunity to play a significant role in making that happen.
We fly to ten domestic destinations, from Kilimanjaro in the north to Mtwara in the south on the mainland, as well as Zanzibar off the coast. It means we can connect loved ones from all corners of the country—as well as Hahaya and Anjuan in Comoros—during the holiday season when the pull of family ties is stronger than ever. In the air, on the ground, beneath the wing, or behind computer screens, we are dedicated to your holiday travel. Please let us know where we came short of your expectations by emailing customer-relations@precisionairtz.com
We have increased flight frequencies to serve you our customers at this busy time. The new year will also see more flights to more destinations to fulfill our network ambitions. On the same note, we have also resumed our flight to Bukoba, effective from 15th December 2024.
Join your family, relatives, and friends this Christmas and New Year holidays by booking your tickets now through www.precisionairtz.com. For further assistance, contact us at +255 746 984 100 or Bwana Swala.
For quick updates on our special offers and business updates, please follow our social media pages on WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), Threads, LinkedIn, and TikTok.
Let me end by wishing all our cherished customers happy holidays. Thank you for your continued support, and it is our pleasure to serve you as you celebrate these special times: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
You Are Why We Fly
Patrick Mwanri Managing Director and CEO Precision Air Services Plc
Precision Air
A commitment to safety
Precision Air staff showcased how it prioritises the health, safety and welfare of travellers and staff during Aviation Security Culture Week. The event – which this year has as its theme ‘Aviation Security is Everyone’s Business’ – is a time to reflect on the importance of a strong security culture within the aviation industry. Precision Air used the opportunity to raise awareness on aviation security and a commitment to make air travel safe for all and encourage everyone to be a good ambassador of safety in this sector.
Our Bruno conquers Mount Kilimanjaro
Precision Air’s head of human resources Bruno Daniel successfully climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. He marked the incredible feat by placing a Precision Air flag at the 5,895-metres-high Uhuru Peak. This achievement is a fine example of our staff’s determination to work hard in dedication and unity.
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Tanzanian-made festive gifts
Support local talent and make someone’s holidays with these festive gifts handmade in Tanzania.
Johari Gin
Gin is the perfect base for a Christmas cocktail. This Tanzanian-made craft gin pairs easily with other ingredients to make classic drinks like gin and tonic or bee’s knees with locally sourced honey while its own flavour profile augmented by 14 locally sourced botanicals means it is also delicious to be sipped neat or on the rocks. Juniper berries give gin its signature flavour. Johari is one of only two gins on the market that use the rare variety juniperus procera, which is picked in the Lushoto Mountains in north-eastern Tanzania. Johari gin has been available to buy since June 2024. The company’s co-owner Seko Shamte says: “From the beginning we knew we wanted a distinctly Tanzanian gin. It has a unique and complex flavour wheel that hits on four major flavour points. First, it is Earthy, thanks to the coriander, cinnamon and mace. Next is a hint of freshness from the coconut, seaweed and lime. Then we have a bit of spice with ginger, chilli, black pepper and cloves. And finally, a beautiful sweetness with vanilla, cardamom, baobab and honey. These flavours harmoniously represent Tanzania’s unique heritage and blending of cultures.” It’s a proudly African product right down to the classy calabash-shaped bottle – a detail that makes it a very attractive gift to find under the Christmas tree.
For more information, visit www.joharigin.com
Make It Matter
Make it Matter, a marketplace for Tanzanian artisans, has just received NGO status after being identified for its work in the country’s creative sector. Its first outlet opened in 2018 as part of creative hub The Drum in Dar es Salaam and it has just launched a new retail shop in Morogoro. Both showcase and support the work of small-scale local crafters giving them the opportunity to make a livelihood from their skills. Products for sale include handmade furniture, fashionwear, jewellery, ceramics and much more. In the run-up to the festive period, Make it Matter has a wide selection of sustainable festive decorations that are kind on the pocket and on the environment. The plastic-free and sustainably sourced decor starts from US$ 2.50
Buy the Make It
Matter
range at The Drum, 50 Msasani Road, Oysterbay, Dar es Salaam and at 215 Kireka, Milimani, Morogoro. Products are also availavle to order online. Visit: www.makeitmatter.org
Changamoto
This Christian foundation runs two centres – one in Dar and one in Arusha – for those battling drug addiction. As part of their rehabilitation, residents are taught woodwork and other crafting skills. The finished products are available to buy and all proceeds from the sales go towards continuing the non-profit’s work at the centres and its efforts to educate Tanzanian children from poorer backgrounds. Much of the hand-crafted range is made from recycled materials and is perfect for kids with products including toy wooden kitchens for little chefs, fabric backpacks, rocking horses and huge variety of baby-friendly stuffed toys that can be personalised with stitched names and dates. Very popular is this zebra cushion from Changamoto’s Savannah collection. It is made with scraps of fabric from second-hand clothes purchased at local markets. The perfect stocking-filler. For more information on the range and to buy, email changamotoorders@gmail.com or call +255 717 084 446.
Inaya Zanzibar
The all-women team at Inaya Zanzibar create unique soaps using a traditional cold-process method. The process involves hand-blending pure African oils and butters, air-curing for a period of four to six weeks before hand-cutting and hand-stamping each bar of soap. The ‘Lather Me Good’ set includes a selection of these all-natural, small-batch soaps individually fragranced with avocado, clove, cocoa and lemongrass and all packaged in a beautiful handmade Inaya Zanzibar toiletry bag. It’s a thoughtful and sustainable gift that reflects the beauty of Tanzania and the Stone Town-based company’s commitment to natural skincare.
Shop online at inayazanzibar.com or visit Inaya Zanzibar store in Shangani, Stone Town.
Neema Crafts
People with disabilities gain skills in tailoring, carpentry, weaving, screen printing, paper making and other artisan techniques to produce the range of unique gifts available at Neema Crafts. The non-profit social enterprise based in Iringa in central Tanzania provides training, employment and even accommodation for more than 100 deaf and disabled staff. It’s a relationship that provides dignity and a secure future for many people who previously relied on street begging or were hidden away at home. Buying from the Neema Crafts range not only supports a very worthy cause, it is also a chance to own a one-off product handmade using locally sourced materials. Among the intrinsically Tanzanian gifts that would make ideal presents is the Mikumi lamp base made from teak sourced sustainably in Ifakara. It pairs with a lampshade made with cotton hand woven in Tanzania and featuring a design from Neema’s deaf screenprinting team.
Shop online at neemacrafts. com or visit the enterprise’s shops at its Iringa base and at the Slipway shopping centre in Dar es Salaam.
Gentle, eco-friendly and makers
of
the world’s best honey:
Why Tanzania’s ‘small bees’ should be treasured
In Tanzania, stingless bee honey is known as ‘dawa’ – Kiswahili for medicine – and has been used by rural communities to treat a wealth of ailments for centuries. However, the future of the bees and their healthy honey is fragile with threats including unsustainable beekeeping practices and intensive agriculture. BEEtopia – a farm on the fringes of Arusha National Park that hosts around 100 colonies of stingless bees – is a base for some of the world’s finest mellitologists and shares sustainable bee-keeping methods with surrounding smallholder farms. Its founder and director Warren Steyn reveals why stingless bees are “lovely creatures” and what it is that makes their honey so healthy and delicious.
Tanzania’s stingless bees might be small, but they have a large eco-friendly impact…
“In Tanzania about 12 species of stingless bees exist. We call them ‘nyuki wadogo’, the small bees. Here, beekeeping is closely tied to forest management. Bees thrive in forested areas, allowing for the harvesting of organic, highquality honey far from intensive agricultural lands. This creates an alternative source of income for local communities, reducing the reliance on timber and charcoal and incentivising the protection of these ecosystems. In this way,
Stingless bee honey is a rare and renowned delicacy
The BEEtopia team with local farmers
The farm is home to around 100 colonies of stingless bees
beekeeping not only supports biodiversity but also plays a vital role in conserving Tanzania’s precious forests. By promoting sustainable stingless beekeeping practices – such as avoiding the gathering of colonies from trees and honey hunting – we actively contribute to forest conservation.”
The sustainable practices shared by BEEtopia prioritise bee health and allow for economic benefits to local beekeepers…
“In some parts of Tanzania, stingless bees are particularly vulnerable due to the high demand
for their honey. Unfortunately, unsustainable beekeeping practices contribute to the decline of these important pollinators. In Tanzania, stingless bee honey is harvested from several species, but only a few can be kept sustainably. Unfortunately, the other species are exploited, and their colonies die after their honey is taken. At BEEtopia, we’ve combined the knowledge of experienced stingless beekeepers with scientific research to develop sustainable practices that prioritise bee health and allow for economic benefits to the beekeeper.
“Our training programme starts with a three-day course
at BEEtopia, spread over several months, where beekeepers learn techniques for sustainable harvesting, hive duplication, and bee-friendly farming. After the training, we provide follow-up visits to assist beekeepers with their colonies.”
BEEtopia
is like a big outdoor classroom…
“Our stingless bee colonies allow our trainees and guests to learn through hands-on observation and experience. Inside, we have a small area equipped with a stereomicroscope and a training room. By 2025, we plan to establish a demonstration plot for regenerative farming and expand our laboratory to enhance research capabilities. We also offer a charming cottage for short-term visitors and scientists and welcome school groups for a playbased educational experience.”
The gardens are a great place for visitors to enjoy a picnic
These bees may have no sting, but they are not defenceless…
“Bees evolved from wasps, which use venom mainly to paralyze
their insect food. Bees however took a different path and became vegetarians, relying on pollen and nectar for food. With this shift in their diet, the usage of venom shifted towards defence. While most bees still use their stings for defence, stingless bees rely on their mandibles for biting, use sticky tree resin to embalm enemies, and design their nests in ways that help protect their colonies. There’s more than one way to stay safe!”
Honey from stingless bees is prized for its rarity, taste and medicinal properties…
“Compared to honeybees, stingless bees produce far less honey. A single colony yields only 1 to 3 kg per year, while honeybee colonies produce 40 kg on average. Its flavour is complex and varies depending on the floral resources available to the bees. For example, honey from Mt Kilimanjaro tastes
“Currently, we’re supporting a project investigating the diversity of pollinators on smallholder farms.
distinctly different from that sourced from Mt. Meru, even though it comes from the same species of bee.”
Traditional beekeepers treat their colonies like a first aid kit… “Come a medical emergency, the colonies are opened, and the honey is used as a treatment. The list of conditions it is used to alleviate is extensive, ranging from respiratory issues and ulcers to topical applications for wound care. Scientific research is beginning to validate these traditional uses, revealing that stingless bee honey is rich in antioxidants and possesses high antimicrobial properties. One exciting discovery, unique to stingless bees, is that they can turn the sucrose from nectar into a novel sugar called Trehalulose. This sugar does not cause a spike in glucose, making stingless bee honey a better option for diabetics.”
BEEtopia is in the heart of Tanzania’s stingless beekeeping region…
“We are located in Northern Tanzania, right on the boundary of the Arusha National Park. On the slopes of Mt Meru and Mt Kilimanjaro stingless beekeeping is widely practiced. This region is the heart of the Tanzanian meliponiculture (stingless beekeeping) community allowing us to continuously learn, share and improve our methods.”
Visitors are welcome…
“Visits are by appointment as it allows us to provide our full attention to each guest. A tour includes a honey tasting and a
Stingless bees are safe for visitors to get close to
refreshing honey soda. After the tour, guests are free to explore our gardens and picnic area.”
Scientists from all over the world come here to conduct research into bees…
“Currently, we’re supporting a project investigating the diversity of pollinators on smallholder farms. The results will be shared in the coming months and our goal is to disseminate these findings within the community, acting as a vital link between farmers and scientists.”
There’s no need for beesuits or smoke to observe these bees…
Stingless bees not only lack a stinger, but they are also incredibly gentle and passive. We can open their hives without any protective gear, allowing for close observation of the intricate workings of their colonies for visitors of all ages.
Proceeds from honey sales help fund training programs
for the beekeeping community…
“At BEEtopia, the honey we sell does not come from our colonies; instead, it is sourced from a vast network of stingless beekeepers on the slopes of Mt. Meru and Mt. Kilimanjaro. Our team works with these beekeepers to harvest honey directly at their homesteads, ensuring the health of their colonies, the quality of the honey, and fair payment along with easy market access for the beekeepers.
“We never take all the honey and allow the bees ample time to restock for the winter. Inside of the hive and after harvesting, the honey undergoes a natural fermentation, a process that can take up to 12 months. We maintain stable and hygienic conditions in large hermetically sealed vessels throughout this period. Only when the honey has fully matured do we bottle and sell it.”
It’s easy to forget, but bees don’t actually make honey for humans…
BEEtopia founder
Warren Steyn (pictured wiuth visiting scientist Dr Kathrin Krausa) is originally from South Africa but has been a proud resident of Tanzania for nearly 20 years. Warren has been a beekeeper for most of his adult life, but it wasn’t until he moved to Northern Tanzania that he became fascinated with stingless bees. Since then, he has developed a deep appreciation for these gentle creatures, their unique behaviors, and, of course, their delicious honey. His passion for beekeeping and dedication to sustainable practices form the foundation of BEEtopia.
BEEtopia is a centre for international research into stingless bees
“Bees produce honey to store carbohydrates for their own survival during times of resource scarcity and harsh weather conditions, not for human consumption. Therefore, we must be mindful of the timing and quantity of honey we harvest. Our top priority is the health of the colonies and the environment.
“The gentle nature of our stingless bees, combined with our careful harvesting methods, ensures that very few, if any, individuals are harmed during the process. Additionally, we always leave enough honey for the bees to thrive.”
BEEtopia is open to visitors by appointment
To find out more about visiting BEEtopia and purchasing its honey, visit beegreen.co.tz/beetopia
Credit Beez
The beautiful birds of Jozani Forest
Most visitors to Zanzibar’s Jozani Forest are on the trail of its endemic red colobus monkeys but the double canopy reserve is also home to more than 160 bird species. Kevin Kelli goes on a guided yet uncharted walk that reveals the colours and character of the rich feathered life here.
Imeet Bakari Mohammed at 9 am. He is wearing a khaki safari suit with gumboots and isn’t particularly happy to see me. “What’s your problem?” I teased. “I thought you loved birdwatching.” “Look who's talking,” he shot back. “You should have been here at sunrise.”
Bakari is my guide for the day, and he has a point. Birdwatching is best done early.
I apologize, assured him that I am confident in his prowess as a guide and wasn’t looking for any particular bird.
“So, you're not here to see the rare Fischer’s turaco or Sharpe’s Akalat?” He asked testily.
‘I don't care if we don't see any rare birds, even a house sparrow or weaver will make me happy,” I replied nonchalantly.
He beamed and shook my hand, “Well in that case you may call me Beka.”
Now on nickname terms, and without expectations, we began our hike into Jozani Forest. Our plan was simple; follow where the path leads, keep our eyes open and trust in providence.
Jozani is located in the central east region of Unguja, the largest island in the Zanzibar archipelago. The forest is famous for its resident troops of Zanzibar red colobus monkeys, endemic to the island.
Guide's story
This thriving tropical ecosystem is also home to over 160 bird species, which is why the khaki-clad man and I were trudging deep into the tropical forest. We couldn’t care less about the colobus monkeys.
Beka was born 34 years ago on the island. From a young age, he was fascinated with birds, so much so that he hunted them with a catapult and clipped their wings to limit their ability to fly away as
many juveniles in rural Africa do. However, as he grew older, he learnt the error of his ways and dedicated much of his time to avian conservation.
Volunteer
For the past 12 years, he has volunteered at the forest and has become one of the most in-demand bird-watching guides on the island. He dedicates about four mornings a week to guiding educational tours. When not in the forest, he works as a construction foreman.
“Was it hard becoming a professional bird-watching guide?” I ask as we walk beneath the forest’s canopy.
“I already knew about these birds. The challenge was translating my knowledge from Swahili to English….” He stops his talk short and suddenly crouches low and points.
Caption
Guide Bakari ‘Beka’ Mohammed
Birds of Jozani Forest
It was a little greenbul – a species that’s extremely shy. Easily heard but seldom seen.
Beka wasn’t impressed when I told him it was the first time I’d seen one. “I thought you were a professional bird watcher.”
Before I can muster a sufficient comeback, an olive sunbird darts from the undergrowth and up into the canopy.
Beka cocks his ear, “Listen!” It was the unmistakable coo of an emerald-spotted wood dove. “Between those branches,” he whispers.
Man with a plan
At first glance, there’s nothing special about this midsized dove, but when the sunlight hits the spots on its wings, they explode into the most beautiful metallic shades of emerald that give the bird its name.
We come to an area grassland and Beka points to some miniature dots dancing around a tree. On closer inspection, they turn out to be manikins. These little birds flock in number well into the hundreds.
I thought we were wandering the forest aimlessly, but I now realised Beka had a plan.
“Do you even know where we are?” I chide. “Patience!” he responds.
We reach a magical woodland area, teeming with collared sunbirds and forest weavers. I see a green-backed wood hoopoe and a white-browed coucal hopping out of a thicket. They appear just long enough for me to get a good look but vanish as soon as I raise my camera.
Other spots include plenty of purple-banded sunbirds and yellow-vented bulbuls as well
as a scarlet-chested sunbird couple perched on a neem tree, engaged in an intense argument. The female appeared furious, probably because the male was in full breeding plumage in close proximity to other females.
“What’s the favourite part of your job?” I ask Beka as we leave the woodlands and head towards the edge of the forest.
“Napenda sana ndege,” he replies in Swahili. It means he really loves birds.
It was easy to see why. We had only been in the forest an hour and had already seen so much.
When Beka talks of birds, he speaks about their character, what brings them joy and what makes them unhappy.
Good guides know the names and genders of their birds, but Beka here can interpret their emotions.
Caption
“Good guides know the names and genders of their birds, but Beka can interpret their emotions.
A bizarre bird calling started very close to us.
“Why don't you check those bushes?” Beka says with a funny smirk.
“I inch closer to the bush and instantly hear the bird calling behind me. I spin around but only see Beka laughing his heart out. Turns out the man can mimic bird calls as well.
At the edge of the forest, we see a spinach farm where a man is cultivating his crop in the mid-morning sun. “Look there!” Beka points.
“I didn't come all this way to see people,” I reply grudgingly, still brooding about the bird calling prank.
“No, look there.”
In the middle of the farm, on a broken papaya trunk is one of the most beautiful birds in all of Africa, a dazzle of colours known as the lilacbreasted roller.
“Distract the farmer, I’m going closer for a photo.” I raise my camera and crouch low.
“Just don't step on his crops,” replies Beka, keeping an eye out.
Last sightings
Back in the forest we see a couple of cattle egrets along the way and a grassland pipit perched on a tree, allowing me a great photo.
“What’s the worst part of your job,” I ask Beka.
He stares into the distance. He takes his time before responding: “When guests only want to see a particular bird and ignore the rest of the beautiful species of this forest.”
We stop in between a woodland of giant, red mahogany trees and soak in the tranquility.
The undergrowth is filled with ferns, while the sunrays paint intricate patterns through the canopy. In the silence, I hear a green-backed camaroptera, a Zanzibar greenbul, and a woodland kingfisher calling its mate.
The scorching Zanzibar sun reminds us that it’s almost noon. We decide to stop for the day and start circling back to base. En route, we encounter a mouse-coloured sunbird, a black-bellied starling, a house sparrow, a yellow-backed tinkerbird, a sitting cisticola and a pair of broadbilled rollers.
“Well, that wasn’t too bad,” I say as we arrive back at the forest gate. “Maybe next time make an appointment with the Fischer’s turaco?"
Beka smiles warmly. “Maybe next time wake up on time. The early riser sees the bird!”
Film uncovers the lost lakes of Dar
Young people in Dar es Salaam, one of the fastest growing cities in the world, grow up knowing only its urban sprawl but there is a generation that lives here that remember s a different, more pastoral Dar with five pristine lakes at its heart. In her documentary A Land of Lost Lakes, local filmmaker and National Geographic Explorer Aika Kirei preserves a little-known slice of local history that was in danger of being lost forever.
Tanzania’s commercial capital Dar es Salaam is one of the fastest growing cities in the world. New film A Land of Lost Lakes documents just how quickly things can change here. In interviews to camera, locals in their late teens and early 20s are asked if they have heard of city lakes such as Mwananyamala, Minyonyoni, Alimaura, Tenge and Magomeni. The question is met with blank faces and embarrassed laughter. “Are they real lakes,” one responds. The film also features interviewees a generation or two older. The lakes are very real to them. One 55-year-old man smiles fondly as he remembers early childhood days spent swimming with his friends in the “crystal clear waters” of Lake Mwananyamala. He says he would regularly swim the length of the tear-shaped lake in the Kijitonyama neighbourhood in the heart of the city. Another older man describes Lake Alimaura as a fertile paradise surrounded by mango and guava trees as well as rice
and cashew farms.
Fifty years on, memories are all that remain of the five lakes that were once within Dar’s borders. One was drained for a petrol station to be built in its place while others were used as unofficial rubbish dumps that allowed sediment to build up and take away the lakes’ ability to store water. As the lakes dried up, locals began to build homes on the land. Kijitonyama is now a bustling neighbourhood with many of its tightly packed homes covering where Lake Mwananyamala once flowed.
Powerful film
At just 13 minutes long and in Swahili with English subtitles, A Land of Lost Lakes is a short but powerful film. Its director Aika Kirei was born in Dar in the 1980s yet admits she spent most of her life also unaware of the lakes. “In 2018 someone in a WhatsApp group I was part of shared an early geo map of the city that showed the lakes. Like most young people here I had no clue they had existed.”
Aika, a writer and filmmaker who has “always loved telling stories”, was inspired to find out more. She tried to locate the book the map came from and searched records at the University of Dar es Salaam’s geographic department. The paucity of information available only served to further convince her of the need to document this piece of hidden history. “It’s not in the textbooks. I felt that this was information that was going to be lost
forever unless I shared it,” she says.
The university scientists say locals are unaware of how their waste disposal affects the availability of water in residential areas.
In the following years Aika created the children’s animated series Chiku and Katope and produced Fahari Yetu: Zanzibar Saves its Sea – both award-winning projects that explored environmental issues – but the lost lakes idea remained on her mind. In 2022 she won financial backing to make the film when she was among the 15,000 storytellers and conservationists
worldwide to gain grants from the National Geographic Society’s Fresh Water Initiative – a new funding opportunity to support communityled freshwater protection projects.
Living testimonies
To source the living testimonies of lake life in Dar half a century ago that provide such an evocative beginning to the film, Aika approached local
government offices to track down people living in the area that were around at that time. As for footage of the lakes themselves, Aika’s camera follows a team of scientists from Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences to the (modern-day) site of Lake Mwananyamala in the centre of the city. The team point out the mandago plants that indicate the presence of a water source, but the busy bird life here is attracted by the piles of rubbish to pick through rather than pools of drinkable lake water. Beyond the marshy ground there is little to the untrained eye that would suggest a lake was ever here.
Aika’s filming of local experts was deliberate. She wanted to show the city has the scientific and intellectual capital to recognise and tackle issues such as these. “I have always
loved natural history programmes. A filmmaker friend of mine said they had never seen African scientists on film before. Not many young filmmakers are doing this. I want to tell more stories like this – our stories.”
The university scientists say locals are unaware of how their waste disposal affects the availability of water in residential areas. While National Geographic’s World Water Map – created as part of the five-year Fresh Water Initiative to map the world’s water shortages – does not include Dar es Salaam among its 22 critical water scarcity hotspots, the city has experienced supply issues in recent years. Drops in water levels of the Ruvu river, Dar’s main source of water, create challenges compounded by the loss of its lakes.
Lesson to the young
Aika hopes the film will bring home the seriousness of the situation especially to children who are saddled with the consequences of environmental damage. “Young people are the primary audience as they are the future decision makers,” she says.
Aika’s work has previously proved adept at showing children they can have impact. Chiku and Katope – a show about a couple of eco-aware Tanzanian kids that question practices that harm the environment – was commissioned for a series after its pilot episode proved popular and has been broadcast across East Africa. “We have been screening it a lot in schools and it is being shared wider and wider,” she says. “After one school screening pupils starting do their own composting inspired by the show.”
Aika hopes A Land of Lost Lakes film will prove just as educational and empowering. Both projects make use of animation to appeal to a young audience. “I had to recreate a lot of footage to
illustrate the recollections of life by the lakes and how the build-up of trash affects the lake over time. I thought those visuals were the best way.
Animation
I worked with a team of young Tanzanian animators using 3D animation.”
The film is getting seen. There have been a series of showings at schools in Dar es Salaam along with public screenings while two Tanzanian broadcasters have already shown it. The film can also be streamed online.
Ultimately, Aika wants the film to be a resource for schools and colleges – a testament to the lakes and a valuable lesson on why one of the fastest growing cities in the world needs to factor in environmental sustainability within its rampant expansion. Aika says: “The film will be a point of reference, a lesson we can learn to apply to other areas. What can we do to prevent this happening again?”
To stream A Land of Lost Lakes on YouTube, go to www.qrs.ly/cxg9247
Meet the rock hyrax
The sunbathing relative of the elephant that weighs
as
much as a bag of sugar
Despite the size difference, the super-cute rock hyrax really is part elephant. Both can be found in the Serengeti with hyrax common in the ‘kopje’ rocky areas that are distinctive features of the national park’s landscape. Here’s our guide to this petite pachyderm.
You wouldn’t think to look at them, but the elephant and the rock hyrax are relatives. The biggest male African savannah elephants can weigh up to 6,800 kg while a rock hyrax would be lucky to hit the scales at 5kg soaking wet. It
is not surprising that it has taken scientists a while to make the connection. In the 18th century rock hyraxes were classified as rodents, but around a hundred years later zoologists grouped them with hippos and camels because of their three-chambered stomachs. Now, thanks to advancement of genetics, it has been discovered that the rock hyrax’s closest relatives are animals such as elephants, dugongs and manatees. What eventually led scientists to this breakthrough? Elephants have prominent and noticeable tusks, while the hyrax has vampire-link cutting teeth, yet both grow from the animals’ incisors. In other mammalian species, tusks grow from the canines. Hyrax also have flat hoof-like nails that resemble
hooves on the tips of their toes rather than the curved claws seen on other mammals. Such nails are present on elephants and on the edges of the fins of manatees.
Serengeti sightings
You can see both the rock hyrax and their ‘big brother’ the elephant in the Serengeti. As their name suggests, rock hyraxes favour rocky habitats so favour the kopjes that abound in the national park. They have adapted to the terrain. Their feet have rubbery
Five fascinating facts about rock hyrax
1 While rock hyrax seemingly spend more time on sunbathing and grooming than your average Love Island contestant, it is for their own survival. In a day, their body temperature can increase or decrease by 12-15˚C (21.6-27°F). To ensure their fur withstands these thermal changes, they must meticulously care for it, continuously oxygenating the space between hairs. Thus, hyraxes indulge in grooming for several hours daily, using the curved nail of their three-toed hind feet.
2 Modern consumers know the importance of probiotics in maintaining importance of gut health and immunity. The rock hyrax is also aware of this, although its methods are rather disgusting. Their young are not born with the bacteria they will need to digest plant matter so to obtain it they eat the poo of adult hyraxes.
3 Want another disgusting fact? Rock hyraxes are toilet trained. They urinate and defaecate in the same place every time. The calcium carbonate in their urine turns the kopjes white.
4 Rock hyraxes are talkative. They can make more than 20 different sounds that are used for communicating and alerting one another to potential danger. They include screams, grunts, snorts, shrieks, wails and cackles. A study published in The Royal revealed males ‘sing’ to attract females and they build phrases using different sounds.
5 They have their own built-in sun visor. All hyraxes have a special eyelid (called a nictitating membrane) for sun and dust protection as well as a bulge in each iris that protects the pupil from sunlight.
pads with numerous sweat glands, which help the animal maintain its grip when quickly moving up steep, rocky surfaces.
While Serengeti provides the hyrax with their rocky dwelling, it is also home to plenty of predators such as leopards, hyenas, wild dogs, jackals, servals, pythons, and eagles. With danger ever-present the hyrax eat quickly with the family group – which can number up to 50 – facing out from a circle to keep watch. They feed on grasses, plants, leaves, fruit, insects, lizards, and bird eggs. This predominantly herbivore diet can be tough to digest, which is where that three-chambered stomach comes in handy.
Sunbathing
Spotting rock hyrax on your Serengeti safari shouldn’t be difficult. While they sleep in in the crevices of kopjes at night, during the day they are sun worshippers.
They cannot regulate their body temperatures very well so you will often find them sunbathing to give them the energy. In fact, catching rays seems to be their favourite pastime. Aside from foraging for food in the morning and evening, it is believed that rock hyraxes are inactive for 95 per cent of the time.
Animal connections
At first glance, hyraxes bear a resemblance to ground squirrels, oversized guinea pigs, or perhaps small beavers – giving them an appearance typical of rodents. The tree hyraxes remained largely elusive to scientific research for a considerable time. These creatures, native to Africa and the Middle East, were documented in the latter half of the 18th century. However, their initial classification as mere rodents meant they often remained just footnotes in natural history.
Approximately a century later,
scientists decided to take a closer look at hyraxes, yet they made another misjudgment, categorising them with perissodactyls (a group that also includes, for instance, zebras, rhinos, and tapirs). The three-chambered stomach of the hyraxes, their dense claws, and their habitual masticating movements misled the zoologists.
Only with the advancement of genetics was it finally possible to accurately determine the origins of hyraxes. The discovery was truly astonishing: the closest relatives of these at-most 4-kg (8.8-pound) creatures are elephants, as well as dugongs and manatees.
You can see rock hyraxes in the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania in Kopjes, clusters of rocks are found on the central plains of the park and are home to many non-plains animals, including rock hyraxes. Some kopjes to check out include:
Simba Kopje: Located on the main road between Seronera and the Ngorongoro Crater Area, this is a good place to see lions
Gol Kopje: Located in the grasslands to the east, this is a good place to see cheetahs and lions
Moru Kopje: This kopje is home to rock hyraxes, as well as other animals such as elephants, leopards, and waterbuck.
Spotting rock hyrax on your Serengeti safari shouldn’t be difficult. While they sleep in the crevices of kopjes at night, during the day they are sun worshippers.
Lazy life – rock hyrax are inactive for 95 per cent of the day
Why Zanzibar is the island for an active break
From kite surfing in its sapphire waters to cycling through forest trails, there’s plenty to keep you active in Zanzibar. Sports tourism here has also recently benefitted from major investments in infrastructure such as an Olympic-sized swimming pool and an Africa Cup of Nations-ready 15,000-seater football stadium. Ahead of the inaugural Zanzibar International Sports Festival (ZISF) in February, Moffin Opilio explores the options to turn your trip into an active adventure.
Football
As in many parts of Africa, football holds a special place in the hearts of Zanzibaris. It is not uncommon to see impromptu matches being played on beaches or fields. Zanzibar has its own beach soccer league and spectacular tournament locations include the Nakupenda sandbar 5km from the Stone Town shore. Events such as the Zanzibar Film Festival (ZISF) in July have men and women’s beach soccer competitions and there will be tournament held as part of next year’s Zanzibar International Sports Festival. The Zanzibar Premier League is where the archipelago’s best association football players compete. There is
also a national team that plays its home games at Amaan Stadium.
The Zanzibar City venue has recently undergone renovation to ready it as a venue for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. The archipelago’s footballing talent has caught the eye of the UK Premier League with Chelsea visiting the island and announcing plans to build an academy to nurture promising players. Perhaps the world’s most renowned footballing nation, Brazil, has also built ties with Zanzibar.
Running
A daybreak or sunset run along one of Zanzibar’s vanilla-sand
beaches is a priceless way to soak up the island’s beauty. Not only do you get to see the island glowing in ‘golden hour’ the air temperature will be cooler and more conducive for running. Bear in mind Zanzibar’s dramatic tide changes, especially on the east coast. Low and high tides occur twice a day and the difference can be marked with high tides often swallowing up the beach entirely. Make sure to check a tide table before heading out on your run, as wet trainers and soggy socks are no-one’s idea of fun. It is also important to be sensitive to cultural values. The vast majority of inhabitants in Zanzibar are Muslim and follow
Zanzibar is surrounded by the Indian Ocean
the Islamic faith. Religious dress is conservative (especially for women) so best to keep your running attire modest. If jogging on public roads or hitting the beach for a morning run is intimidating then locate the nearest football field – as mentioned before, they are everywhere – to run laps. Should you want to add a competitive edge to your running, there are organised races throughout the year. The Zanzibar International Marathon takes place in November and attracts thousands of tourists with races over 21 km, 10km and 5km. The ZISF will also host its own ‘Blue Marathon’.
Cycling
Tour companies offer multi-day and day trip cycling tours around the island. Many hotels on the island will also have bikes for guests to hire while urban areas
such as Stone Town offer a choice of bike rental outlets. Take a ride from Stone Town to a spice farm, tour the historic fishing village on Nungwi or go off-road in the trails of Jozani Forest. For serious cyclists one of the highlights of ZISF will be the three-day ‘Tour de Zanzibar’ open to riders from all over the world. The stage race begins and ends in Stone Town and reaches Kendwa Rock in the north of the island and Kizimkazi in the south.
Swimming
Ringed by the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar offers countless opportunities for swimming. Many beaches here are ideal for safe swimming with offshore reefs keeping the inner waters calm. Of course, the reefs offer their own aquatic adventures with the colourful marine life they attract making for unforgettable snorkelling and
Tennis is an option at hotels and sports clubs
diving excursions. The massive reef around Mnemba Island just off the coast of Zanzibar is a rich habitat for around six hundred species of colourful coral reef fish while its water are the seasonal home to giants of he sea such as humpback whales and whale sharks. Other pristine and fish-filled reefs include the Menai Bay Conservation Area and the coral gardens around the protected Chumbe Island. If the variety of underwater life here fills you with fear rather than fervour, there is now an Olympic-sized pool in Zanzibar to get your swimming fix. The state-of-the-art pool is among the new features at the revamped Amaan Sports Complex. The Tui Blue Bahari Zanzibar also has an 50-metre pool – one of three swimming pools at the 5-star beachside resort in Kiwengwa on the island’s north-east coast.
Beach volleyball
Many beaches here have a volleyball net for a pick-up game during your Zanzibar holiday. If you want to see some of the best players in the world serve and spike, head to Nungwi beach in October where a 10-day international tournament takes place.
Basketball
Basketball is a growing sport in Zanzibar as it is across the continent thanks to the Basketball African League (BAL). There is a public court in Malindi in Zanzibar City while a new acrylic court at Amaan is the place to watch the big games. International tournament the ZYBA Cup, organised by the Zanzibar Basketballers Association, takes place in August.
Tennis
There are plenty of Zanzibar hotels that have tennis courts for guests to use. ZISF brings the opportunity to watch local players take on talent from around the world at a tournament From February 11 to 12 at Maisara Tennis Club in Zanzibar City. Padel
Tennis – a adaptation of tennis with a smaller court and lower net – is having a global moment and there are two floodlit courts at Padel Tennis, a club in Kiwengwa.
Kitesurfing
Some of the best kiting conditions in the world can be found on Zanzibar’s south-east coast, with Paje and Jambiani now filled with surf schools, bars, clubs and hotel to cater for an international crowd of kitesurfers. The low-tide lagoon, which is full of calm, shallow water over soft sand is ideal for beginners to learn the sport water while beyond the reef there are waves for advanced riders. Other kitesurfing spots include Kiwengwa bay where international kitesurf regatta the Zanzibar Cup takes place every August.
Zanzibar International Sports Festival (ZISF)
The first edition of this festival is set to launch in February 2025. The five-day event aims to showcase the natural beauty of the Zanzibar islands to the world through a series of sporting events open to local and international competitors. Sporting events include a ‘Tour of Zanzibar’ cycle race, marathons and fun runs, beach soccer tournaments and a tennis competition. Packages for international competitors include sight-seeing tours to familiarise them with the wonders of Zanzibar. To register for any of the festival events, visit zisf.co.tz
Head to Zanzibar’s southeast coast for the best kitesurfing conditions
Fried fish British pub style
MTop of the morning, mate! Fancy some fish and chips? Tanzanian chef and online content creator Monalisa Rwechungura turns an East African fish into a classic British dish.
y favourite type of fried fish is English pub-style fish. Commonly served with a side of fries, the classic fish and chips is a British institution and a national dish that everyone can’t help but love.
Use a thick white fish for this recipe. Nile Perch fillets are my preferred choice. The batter is light and includes both baking powder and sparkling water. The carbonation in the sparkling water, the crunch from the
baking powder and the perch ensures a perfect crispy fish.
While the British get straight to cooking, I usually marinate the fish fillets first and let them sit for a minimum of an hour to soak up maximum flavour before dredging and then frying them. I love to douse my crispy fried fish with a good measure of lemon, a shake of sea salt and a dip of fresh tartar sauce.
Let’s cook!
METHOD
Prep time: 60 minutes
Cook time: Four to six minutes
Serves: three to four
INGREDIENTS
1kg Nile perch fillets cut into portions
120 grammes all-purpose flour
60 grammes cornstarch
1 teaspoon (tsp) baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 egg
1 cup sparkling water
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp ginger powder
1 lemons (one juiced, one cut into wedges)
INSTRUCTIONS
• In a mixing bowl, combine the garlic powder, ginger powder, onion powder, lemon juice, black pepper and salt.
• Pour the marinade mix over the fish fillets, massage the marinade into the fish and let the fillets sit in the fridge for an hour. Remove the fillets from the fridge and let sit on counter for 10 minutes. (They need to come to room temperature).
• In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder and salt.
• Whisk in the egg and sparkling water. Stir until smooth. Add oil to a large frying pan. Your pan should have enough oil so that it is at least 5cm deep.
• Heat the oil until it registers 176°C on a deep-frying thermometer. Dip the fish fillets in the batter until they are completely coated.
• Place the fish fillets in the hot oil. Cook the fillets over medium heat until they are golden brown. Two to three minutes per side should do it.
• Remove the fillet from the cooking oil and place in a pan lined with paper towels to drain the excess oil.
• Serve with lemon wedges and tartar sauce.
Why mangrove planting may hold key to
Protecting world-renownedKenya’s coastline
A community-run mangrove tree nursery is among the recent ‘blue carbon’ investment to protect Kenya’s coastline and counter climate change. African blogger and travelling photographer Selorm Ernest Sosu visits Dabaso in Kilifi County to find out more.
Kilifi County, known for its beautiful beaches, is increasingly becoming a focal point for blue carbon investment – a transformative approach to mitigating climate change by conserving and restoring coastal and marine ecosystems. Every two weeks in Dabaso – a serene village in Kilifi – locals nurture and plant mangrove seedlings in a collaborative initiative between the Greens of Africa Foundation and the Dabaso-based Sita Umoja Self-Help Group.
The importance of mangroves
Mangroves are hardy tropical plants that grow between land and sea. These vital ‘blue carbon’ ecosystems are known to capture carbon dioxide at rates up to ten times greater than terrestrial forests, thereby playing a crucial role in mitigating climate change. They also act as natural barriers, protecting coastal communities from storm surges and erosion. Furthermore, they are nurseries for fish and other marine life,
supporting biodiversity and local fisheries.
The role of blue carbon investment
Blue carbon investment is a funding initiative with the goal of protecting and restoring coastal and marine ecosystems, such as mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes. Mida Creek, a tidal inlet that expands
across an area of 32 sq km in Dabaso and is pivotal for both environmental sustainability and the economic well-being of local communities, is a target for investment.
A collaboration championing mangrove restoration
Greens of Africa Foundation and Sita Umoja Self Help Group
The Greens of Africa Foundation team at the beach in Dabaso
are working closely with local communities in Dabaso to promote mangrove restoration. Their approach is holistic, integrating environmental education, community engagement, and sustainable economic development. Every two weeks villagers plant mangrove seedlings bought from them. It has become a communal event that fosters a deep connection between the people and their environment and afforestation of the marine coast.
The foundation provides training on mangrove ecology and restoration techniques ensuring that the community members understand the significance of their efforts. They learn about the different species of mangroves, the best planting practices, and how to care for the seedlings until they mature. This knowledge
transfer is crucial for the sustainability of the project, empowering locals to take ownership of the restoration efforts.
Community involvement and benefits
This project provides tangible economic incentives for the locals apart from the environmental benefits. Out of the proceeds of selling the matured mangroves for ecological restoration along the coast, villagers have launched the Sita Sunset Hotel to generate additional income in a region where economic opportunities can be limited.
Moreover, the restored mangroves enhance local fisheries by providing breeding grounds for fish and other marine species. This boosts the availability of fish, benefiting local fishermen and
ensuring food security.
Challenges and solutions
While the blue carbon investment and mangrove restoration efforts in Kilifi County are promising, they are not without challenges. One significant challenge is the impact of climate change itself, which can alter weather patterns and affect the growth and survival of mangrove seedlings. Additionally, securing consistent funding and ensuring long-term sustainability of the projects can be difficult.
To address these challenges, Greens of Africa and Sita Umoja Self Help Group employ a multi-pronged strategy. They collaborate with local and international partners to secure funding and technical support. This includes working with academic institutions for research and monitoring, as well as engaging with policymakers to create supportive regulatory frameworks.
Another critical aspect is education and awareness-raising. By educating the community about the broader impacts of climate change and the importance of mangroves, Greens of Africa and Sita Umoja Self Help Group foster a culture of conservation.
The future of blue carbon in Kilifi County
The blue carbon investment in Kilifi County represents a beacon of hope in the fight against climate change. It is a sustainable model that can be replicated in other coastal regions. It is a testament to the power of collective action and the critical role of blue carbon ecosystems in the global fight against climate change.
Every two weeks villagers plant mangrove seedlings
Boardwalks protect the mangroves
Six street foods to try in Dar es Salaam that are not nyama choma
For a true taste of Tanzania’s commercial capital, tuck into its tantalising street food. Roadside grills all over Dar es Salaam sizzle the city’s most emblematic snack: the seasoned flamed-grilled meat of nyama choma, but it does pay to investigate some of the other offerings for food-on-the-go. Here are six standouts that’ll make you glad you bypassed the barbecue.
Chipsi mayai
Everyone loves French fries. Everyone loves omelettes. Merge them together into one dish and you are certain to have a winner. So, it proved when chipsi mayai – a fusion of French fries and a batter made from eggs, onions, and spices, and then fried in hot oil until crispy – was
Mandazi
first introduced on the streets of Dar. It has gone on to become a comfort food classic across the country. Typically served with kachumbari (a fresh tomato and onion salad) and given a kick with some hot sauce or chili peppers, this is a quick and filling dish.
Start you day right with this popular street food indulgence. Mandazi are golden dumplings of fried dough, a kind of breakfast doughnuts. Unlike most doughnuts, the sweetness is rather subtle with just a light dusting of powdered sugar refined with spices such
Chipsi mayai Mandazi
Pan Puri
as cardamom, coconut or cinnamon. For the best tasting mandazi, pick a stall where a fresh batch of the dough triangles are fried in hot oil in front of you to ensure the freshest flavour. Taking in the heady aroma as they sizzle is part of the Tanzanian experience, which you can complete by wolfing down the mandazi with a hot cup of chai or coffee.
Zanzibar Mix
As is common in Swahili cuisine, this hearty dish is inspired by Indian cooking but given its own Tanzanian twist. Zanzibar Mix (also known as Urojo) is a curry soup loaded with all kinds of
street-food favourites such as cubes of mishkaki meat, fried lentil bhajias, fried potatoes, crunchy chickpea balls and given some extra crunch with a handful of cassava of potato chips. It is all then topped with a spoon of fresh coconut chutney and a pile of hot pili pili sauce. Bring your appetite for this one.
Pani Puri
Another India-influenced dish that has become a popular street food dish in Dar is pani puri. The spicy snack consists of a ‘puri’, the hollowed-out breaded shell, into which is stuffed chutney, masala, potatoes, onions and chickpeas
before it is deep fried and then filled to the brim with spiced water (‘pani’). Open wide, eat the whole thing at once, and feel the flavours and textures explode in your mouth.
Vitambua
These small pancake-like rice cakes are melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Flavoured with coconut and cardamom, they should be golden and crunchy on the outside and have a fluffy centre. Perfect with tea in the morning, these hugely popular snacks are considered fuel food to stoke up Dar es Salaam residents for another day of hustle in the city.
Cassava chips
The brigade of beach bars along Coco Beach – one of Dar’s most popular hang-outs day and night – will all sell you plates of fried cassava chips to enjoy. A healthier alternative than potato chips, this crispy snack is a good source of fibre and contains vitamins and minerals like calcium, potassium, and vitamin C. The Coco Beach version is also super fresh with the wafer-thin slices of the starchy root vegetable fried in a pan of hot oil before your eyes. This is a Dar favourite and a very affordable snack with views of the Indian Ocean thrown in for free.
Vitambua
Zanzibar Miz
Cassava chipsa
New year tech
New Year is often the launch pad for life overhauls and there is a range of tech out there to help you pursue – and stick with – your January resolutions. From e-readers to fitness tracking apps, here are the best self-improvement gadgets for a new you this year.
Resolution:
To read more…
THE KINDLE PAPERWHITE SIGNATURE EDITION
If your daily reading habit doesn’t go much beyond perpetually scrolling posts on Instagram or X, it may be time to break out the books. Regular reading has many benefits, including maintaining a healthy brain, boosting memory, reducing stress, and expanding vocabulary. The reading experience is cheaper and more adaptable with an e-reader rather than stacking up a pile of printed books. The Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition has 32GB of storage to pack with your favourite books, magazines and audiobooks. The purchase includes a three month membership of Kindle Unlimited with millions of titles to choose from. The glare-free display and autoadjusting front light means you can read at any time of day.
Price: US$ 189 Amazon.com
Resolution: To get better sleep… BOSE SLEEPBUDS
Getting quality sleep each night can have a transformational effect on your health and energy levels. If traffic noise, a snoring partner or any other distraction is interrupting your sleep, pop in a pair of Bose’s wireless noisemasking earbuds. They are made of soft silicone for a comfortable fit all night and will play ambient sounds such as rolling waves, rain on leaves or a crackling fire to mask any unwanted noise. You may not need them to drift off into deep, restorative slumber on your RwandAir flight as among the soothing tracks on the Bose Sleep app is the sound of an aircraft cabin.
Bose Sleepbuds
Price: US$289.95
Bose.com
Resolution: To save more money…
EMMA APP
Building a better budget is the best way to stay on top of your finances this year. Budgeting apps can help you do this as painlessly as possible and highlight where savings can be made. The Emma app links to your bank accounts and other financial products, analysing the information to make suggestions on wasteful subscriptions you could cut. The standard free version of Emma lets you connect up to two bank accounts so you can track your subscriptions, set up monthly budgets, track your payday and make payments within the app.
Cost: Free for standard Emma; US$ 6.31 per month for Emma Plus; US$ 12.60 a month for Emma Pro; US$ 18.90 per month for Emma Ultimate. Emma-app.com
The living history of Stone Town
The labyrinthine streets of Stone Town, the historic centre of Zanzibar City, are full of architectural wonders. These ornate, imposing buildings are a living reminder of the Omani rule of the 18th and 19th centuries when the port town was a hub of maritime trading activity between Africa and Asia. It was a formative period that saw the shameful rise of slavery, but also the beginnings of its abolition and opened the archipelago to the international influences that inform cosmopolitan Swahili culture to this day. Here are some of the buildings to look out for on your stroll around Stone Town.
The Old Fort
The Old Fort – also known as Ngome Kongwe in Swahili – is the oldest building in Stone Town. Portuguese colonialists began building the fortification, but in 1698, Zanzibar fell under the control of the Sultan of Oman. The Portuguese were expelled, and the building was completed in an Omani style in 1780. It was later used both as a prison by the British officials until 1950, and also as a railway workshop in the 1920s when a track from the village of Bububu to town was built. Now it is used as a cultural centre of Stone Town, offering a spectacular amphitheatre for events such as the
Zanzibar International Film Festival and the celebration of live African music that is Sauti za Busara. The fort is essentially a square of high, brown wall topped with crenelated battlements for protection. In the courtyard there are some remnants of earlier buildings, including those of a Portuguese church and another Omani fortification.
The House of Wonders
Also known as Beit-al-Ajaib, this large ceremonial palace built in 1883 by Sultan Sayyid Bargash is the tallest and largest building in Stone Town. It was intended as a ceremonial palace and official reception hall, celebrating modernity. It was named ‘House of Wonders’ because it was the first building in Zanzibar to have electricity and the first building in East Africa to feature an elevator. It’s located on the seafront along Mizingani Road and is considered one of the town’s most wellknown landmarks. After the 1964 revolution the building was used by the ruling party and in 2001 became the Museum of Zanzibar. In 2020, the front of the House of Wonders suffered a partial collapse. It has yet to be repaired.
Old Dispensary
This 19 th-century building has
one of the most attractive and best-preserved examples of hand-carved balconies that are a feature of many of the homes of wealthy traders here. Many of the traders hailed from India and the style owes much to the exquisite traditional mansions known as ‘havelis’ popular in Gujarat. Other striking features include the sculpted clock tower, the stucco work, covered courtyard and the carved bridges that connect all the three floors. Also known as Ithnashiri Dispensary, this building was constructed between 1887 and 1894 by Tharia Topan, a prominent Ismaili Indian merchant who also acted as financial adviser to the sultan and as banker to Tippu Tip, Zanzibar’s most notorious slave trader. Topan did not intend the building for himself – he had an imposing home on Hurumzi Street, which has now been modernised and re-opened as the character-filled
Emerson on Hurumzi hotel – but to serve as a charity hospital for the poor. The dispensary fell into disrepair during the 1970s and 1980s, but it was renovated with an eye-catching mint-green colour scheme in 1995. A few years later it opened as the Stone Town Cultural Centre selling local artwork and crafts.
Said Muhoud Mosque
Islam is the main religion in Zanzibar, with about 99 per cent of the population identifying as Muslim. There are 52 mosques in Stone Town and amplified calls to prayer are part of the evocative daily soundtrack here. Said Muhoud Mosque stems from the 1830s but it believed to be built on the site of an earlier mosque that dates to the 15th century. It has some unusual architectural features, including a cone-shaped minaret (you’ll find just two others in East Africa) and a square platform.
The Royal Cemetery
Located next the House of Wonders, this is a burial ground where nine of the 12 Sultans who ruled Zanzibar and their children were buried. It has recently undergone major renovations by the National Records and Archives Authority. In March this year the
(Above from left) the Old Dispensary, the Said Muhoud Mosque and Christ Church
The House of Wonders seen from Stone Town harbour
authority also opened an on-site exhibition that explores the history of the cemetery and those interred.
Hamamni Persian Baths
Sultan Seyyid Bargash – the second sultan of Zanzibar –commissioned Persian architects to build the baths between 1870 and 1888 and they remained in use until 1920. The building had hot and cold baths, toilets, shaving areas, and a restaurant. Only wealthy Zanzibaris could make use of it as there was an entrance fee. They were open both to men and women, but with different hours
of admittance. The baths are no longer working, but the building was restored in 2006 and is open to tourist visits.
Christ Church
The European occupants of Zanzibar also left their mark on Stone Town. This Anglican Cathedral has much become a symbol of the end of the slave trade area. It was built on the orders of Bishop Steere, a champion of the anti-slavery movement and the foundation stone was laid down on Christmas Day 1873, the same year that
the slave trade was officially abolished. The cathedral’s wooden crucifix is made from the tree under which pioneering missionary and abolitionist David Livingstone died in Zambia. Instead of the coral stone and lime mortar favoured by Stone Town builders, the cathedral was made of cement, but there are some Arabic features in its mainly Gothic design. It is said that Sultan Barghash donated the clock for the cathedral tower on the condition the tower should not exceed the tower at the House of Wonders in height.
Architectural features to look out for...
Barazas
Barazas are benches are found outside traditional Swahili homes or the heavy doors of Arab-style townhouses. The long, narrow streets of Stone Town are flanked by baraza benches built on each side. Here Islamic men would traditionally receive visitors in their homes without compromising the privacy of the women of the house. Coffee and snacks would be served on the baraza to anyone who arrived, with only the closest friends or family members being invited into the innermost recesses of the house. Today, baraza are still a meeting point for all sections of Zanzibari society, whether it’s to gossip, play games of bao or cards, drink super-strong Arabic coffee or to just take a nap out of the strong Zanzibar sun.
Doors
The massive teak or mahogany doors grace the front of almost every building of note in Stone Town, and their style has been copied all over the world. Each door is unique with craftsmen tailoring their designs to the social position, religious practices and occupation of the future owner. Due to the Islamic ban on depicting living things, most door patterns were abstract, but there was much that could be suggested. For example, a merchant who’d made his fortune from a fleet of fishing boats would reside behind a door whose carved patterns flowed sinuously up and down like ocean waves. The outermost strip of the doorframe is carved with a chain or rope to enslave
any evil spirits attempting to force their way into the residence. The Arab inscriptions carved in the stone frieze above the lintel are usually verses from the Koran or the names of the house owner who commissioned the door.
Balconies
Another notable feature of Stone Town’s houses are their balconies. Intricately carved from rosewood or teak, these are an import from India. The bigger the balcony, the greater the status of the owner. These enclosed balconie allowed the ladies of the house to take the air while still being shielded from prying eyes in the street below.
Serengeti by Numbers
One of the most impressive nature spectacles in the world, Serengeti National Park has an ecosystem that supports an unprecedented density of wild animals – from globally threatened or endangered animal species to Big Five headliners. Paa Tanzania runs the numbers.
25,000K m2
The area of the national park. Serengeti is named after the Maasai word ‘siringet’ which means endless plains
1,000 km
2 million
The number of wildebeests that come together – along with hundreds of thousands of other hooved mammals – for the never-ending spectacle that is The Great Migration.
The distance of the Great Migration’s annual circular trek that spans Kenya and Tanzania.
300
Despite the cheetah is the most endangered large cat in Africa, there is a healthy population in Serengeti.
1,175,695
The number of visitors to Serengeti in 2022.
4,000
The estimated number of lions in Serengeti, which may be the largest population of lions in Africa.
500
Bird species recorded. They include the highest population of ostrich in Africa and the ubiquitous long-crested eagle. The best time to see birds in the Serengeti is from November through April.
Embracing sustainable tourism in Tanzania: A path to conservation and community empowerment
How Tanzania is building an ecotourism profile that both showcases and safeguards its world-leading natural attractions.
Tanzania is a land of extraordinary natural beauty, from the majestic peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro to the vast savannas of the Serengeti. With tourism being a vital part of the economy, the country is increasingly focusing on sustainable tourism practices that not only protect its unique landscapes and wildlife but also benefit the local communities.
One of the key initiatives in Tanzania's sustainable tourism approach is the promotion of eco-tourism. This involves encouraging visitors to engage in environmentally friendly activities that have minimal impact on the environment. Eco-lodges and sustainable tour operators are gaining popularity, offering experiences that
the preservation of cultural heritage and the local economy.
animals to ensure their natural behaviour is not disrupted.
allow travellers to connect with nature while supporting conservation efforts. These lodges often utilise renewable energy sources, practice waste management, and work closely with local communities to ensure that tourism benefits everyone.
In addition to eco-tourism, Tanzania places a strong emphasis on communitybased tourism. This approach empowers local communities by involving them in tourism development and allowing them to share their culture and traditions with visitors. Programmes that support local guides, artisans, and cultural experiences not only enhance the visitor experience but also provide essential income to families and communities. By participating in these programmes, tourists can contribute to
Tanzania's commitment to wildlife conservation is also evident in its efforts to combat poaching and habitat destruction. National parks and conservation areas are increasingly employing advanced technologies and community engagement strategies to protect endangered species and their habitats. By supporting conservation programmes, tourists can play a role in preserving Tanzania’s rich biodiversity for future generations.
Five Sustainable Tourism Practices for Visitors in Tanzania
Choose Eco-Friendly Accommodation
Opt for lodges and hotels that practice sustainability, such as those using renewable energy, conserving water, and supporting local communities.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife during safaris, adhere to park rules, and avoid feeding or disturbing
Support Local Communities
Purchase handicrafts and souvenirs directly from local artisans or community markets and consider participating in community-based tourism experiences to support local economies.
Reduce Plastic Use
Bring a reusable water bottle and shopping bag to minimise single-use plastic waste, and encourage others to do the same.
Offset Your Carbon Footprint
Consider supporting carbon offset programs or initiatives that plant trees or support renewable energy projects to help mitigate the environmental impact of your travel.
By embracing sustainable tourism practices, visitors to Tanzania can enjoy its breathtaking landscapes and wildlife while contributing to the preservation of its natural beauty and the empowerment of local communities.
FROM TRACK TO TRAGEDY: Femicide fears in East Africa
Harriet James
Just four weeks after competing at her first Olympic Games in Paris, Rebecca Cheptegei, the Ugandan national record holder in the marathon, was murdered by her former partner at her home in the usually peaceful village of Kinyoro in Kenya’s western Rift Valley. The region is popular with distance athletes who build their stamina training at the high altitudes, but it can also be a dangerous place to be a successful woman. While the region is poor, top women athletes earn more than one million dollars a year from endorsements and winnings and this can make them vulnerable to men looking to cash in on their achievements.
Cheptegei’s death brought back painful memories for East Africa’s athletic community. In 2021 Kenyan Agnes Tirop, the second-youngest gold medallist in the World Cross Country Championships, died aged 25 after being stabbed by her husband. In the same week, Edith Mutoni, a 27-year-old who represented Kenya at 400 and 800 metres was found with fatal stab wounds in her neck at her home. The main suspect was her husband. The following year Kenyan-born Bahraini athlete Damaris Muthee Mutua was
found dead in her home in Iten. She had been strangled.
These four women’s elite endeavours give their cases a high profile, but they represent just a fraction of the lives lost to gender-based violence in Kenya. One in three women in the country reports at least a case of abuse by the age of 18, according to Kenyan charity, the Gender Violence Recovery Centre, largely from their intimate male partners, male family members, or other males known to them.
Femicide Count Kenya, a monitoring group tracking media-reported femicides (the intentional murder of a woman by a man), says in January this year 32 women – about one every day – were killed by a male perpetrator.
Every single day, we watch news of young women who have been brutally murdered but no strong action, no legislation is taken to protect women. Instead, women are blamed for lacking judgment when choosing partners and sometimes the crime is even celebrated as justice for broke boy behaviour. In most instances, the suspects, when captured, are released on bail and the cases never see the light of day. When women report of their insecurity, their matter is usually
Harriet James is Paa’s new columnist. The Nairobi-based travel journalist loves to promote African destinations, meet new people and inspire change and positivity wherever she goes. Follow her on Instagram and LinkedIn @HarrietOwalla.
not taken seriously.
It is high time that athletic organisations and governments take the protection of female athletes seriously. Our athletes are human beings first and foremost who have the right to be protected. Secondly, they are our role models that inspire a sense of belonging and unity. Female athletes are advocates of gender equality, challenging the traditional gender roles and perception of women particularly in sports.
A way forward
Governments should take our athletes as seriously in the same way that we preserve our national treasures. Additionally, there should be a mental health space specifically tailored for women athletes with counsellors and mentors to guide them. Further, there needs to be stricter laws on femicide and domestic violence to ensure that victims are protected when they make reports without fear and victimisation. I believe also the government should partner with NGOs and have community engagements that can reshape how men and communities views successful women.
Paa Royal Benefits
Benefits that will make you feel like royalty
Precision Air is always looking to give its customers an exclusive and memorable service experience; and the Paa Royal benefits programme is part of that mission. The membership categories* are as follows:
Jade Member benefits
Upon enrolment, members will be given their unique Paa Royal number, which they must always show whenever they buy tickets as well as during check-in at the airport. After flying three times or more, members will be given a Jade membership card. With the card, they will be recognised as members of the Paa Royal Programme.
Other benefits of Jade membership:
• Priority membership baggage tags to ensure tagged bags will be handled with special care and delivered first on the conveyor belt at the passenger’s arrival destination
• An opportunity to get a free ticket within the Precision Air’s network after accumulating enough points in their account.
*Please note that, in each membership category, if a member is unable to maintain the required number of flights in a year, he or she will be downgraded to their tier level achieved in that current year.
Silver Member benefits
After attaining Silver membership level, the member will be issued with a Silver membership card which he (or she) must show at all Precision Air point of sales in order to receive the recognition that he deserves. Should a member book online by logging into Paa Royal Pages, he will automatically receive points earned to his account. Members will be entitled to special treatment and priority treatment whenever they travel.
Other benefits of Silver membership:
• Free 5 kg baggage every time member travels on a PW operated flight
• Priority membership baggage tags to ensure tagged bags will be handled with special care and delivered first on the conveyor belt at member’s arrival destination
• Opportunity to obtain a free ticket within the Precision Air network after accumulating enough points in your account
• Priority telephone reservation in those times when you want to make your reservation and cannot visit our office or travel agent. Booking is a call away through our Paa Royal helpdesk line.
Gold Member benefits
After attaining the Gold membership, members will begin to experience royal and exclusive treatment whenever they fly. Members will be opened up to a new world of opportunities and experiences and, of course, receive more rewards. Should a member book online by logging into Paa Royal Pages, he (or she) would automatically receive points earned to his account.
Other benefits of Gold:
• Free 10 kg baggage every time member travels on a PW operated flight
• Priority membership baggage tags to ensure tagged bags will be handled with special care and delivered first on the conveyor belt at member’s arrival destination
• Opportunity to obtain a free ticket within the Precision Air network after accumulating enough points in your account
• Priority telephone reservation at times when you want to make your reservation and cannot visit our office or travel agent. Booking is a call away through our Paa Royal helpdesk line
• Priority waitlist/airport standby each time you want to travel and your selected flight is full.
Tanzanite Member benefits
When members reach Tanzanite member they attain ultimate royalty. We will always strive to give these royal members an exclusive and memorable flight experience. At this level, members will already be used to royal treatment; royalty will be their way of life.
Other benefits of Tanzanite:
• Free 15 kg excess baggage every time the member travels on a PW-operated flight
• Opportunity to obtain a free ticket within the Precision Air network after accumulating enough points in your account
• Confirmation on any flight if a member is prepared to pay Y class fare, regardless of the flight booking status
• Priority waitlist/airport standby whenever you want to travel and your selected flight is full
• Priority telephone reservation at times when you want to make your reservation and cannot visit our office or travel agent. Booking is a call away through our Paa Royal helpdesk line.
• Priority membership baggage tags to ensure tagged bags will be handled with special care and delivered first on the conveyor belt at member’s destination.
• Silver, Gold and Tanzanite members also get discounts of up to 20 per cent when visiting GSM shopping malls Msasani and Pugu, Southern Sun Hotel, Akemi restaurant, East Point Restaurant and the Colosseum hotel and sports club - all in Dar es Salaam.
Paa Contacts
Your nearest Precision Air office anywhere in the world
TANZANIA
Dar es Salaam Head Office
Diamond Plaza, 1st Floor, Plot no 162 / 38, Mirambo Street/ Samora Ave, Dar es Salaam
Tel: +255 (0)22 219 1000
Contact Centre:
+255 (0)787 888 409/408/417
Email: pwreservations@precisionairtz.com
Dar es Salaam Sales Office
NIC HDQ BUILDING,
Samora Ave/Pamba Road
PO Box 70770, Dar es Salaam
Tel: +255 (0)22 213 0800 / 212 1718
Fax: +255 (0)22 211 3036
Email: salesdar@precisionairtz.com
E-COMMERCE
(For users of VISA and MasterCard)
Diamond Plaza, 1st Floor
Plot no 162/38
Mirambo Street/Samora Ave
Dar es Salaam
Tel: +255 (0)686 177 458/ (0)689 669 446
Fax: +255 (0)22 211 3036
Email: pwreservations@precisionairtz.com
ARUSHA
Ngorongoro Tourism Center
First Floor
Goliondoi & Makongoro Road
PO Box 1636, Arusha
Tel: +255 27 254 5489 / 254 5503
Email: pw-arksales@precisionairtz.com
BUKOBA
Bukoba Office-GSA, Bukoba Machinery, Bukoba Centre
Highbridge House, 581 Bath Road Longford, West Drayton
Middlesex, UB7 0EW
Reservations: +44 (0)844 482 2313
Email: precisionair@apg-ga.co.uk
MASTER
GSA OF ASIA PACIFIC (excluding Japan and China)
Elite Holiday Travel Service
Taipei, Taiwan
FAX: 8
Tel: 886-2-2541 3366
Fax: 886-2-2536 1824
Email: sales@eliteholiday.com.tw
PRECISION AIR OFFLINE TEAM
Diamond Plaza, 1st Floor
Plot no 162/38, Mirambo Street
Samora Ave, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Tel: +255 784 772 823 / +255 786 447 411
Email: pw-offline@precisionairtz.com
Welcome Aboard
Safety and well-being on board
PASSENGER SAFETY
Precision Air takes passenger safety very seriously. Aviation safety isn’t just the pilot’s or the cabin crew’s job – it takes all of us.
It is easy for our natural sense of caution to be dulled in our modern environment, where things don’t go wrong very often. Whether in the air or on the ground, your life and the lives of your family members could some day be saved if you make it a point, in every situation, to create a mental plan of action in case of emergency. Here are some important tips to help you enjoy your travel experience with Precision Air – in flight and around the airport.
EXIT ROW SEAT
A passenger who is allocated an emergency exit seat:
A. Must be both willing and physically able to open the exit doors in an emergency
B. Must completely understand the printed emergency evacuation techniques
C. Must be 16 years old and above.
PAY ATTENTION TO PRE-FLIGHT BRIEFING
Although the information seems repetitious, the locations of the closest emergency exits may be different depending on the aircraft that you fly on and the seat you are in.
CARRY ON BAGGAGE
There are strict rules about what you can bring on board an aircraft. Because:
A. Not all aircraft have space to store your carry-on baggage.
B. In an accident, baggage in the aisles makes it harder to get out of the aircraft quickly.
Carry-on bags must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead bins. Please confirm with Precision Air rules before your travel to avoid delays.
*Remember: All carry-on baggage must be left behind in an evacuation.
SAFETY ONBOARD
Boarding and leaving an aircraft requires your full attention. As you move to and from the aircraft, you may be in a busy area with many other passengers and cargo, moving vehicles, other aircraft, slippery walkways and/or stairs.
RESPECT YOUR CREW AND FELLOW PASSENGERS
Everyone has the right to safe and secure travel. That is why Precision Air employees and the aviation authority will not tolerate any behaviour that interferes with the flight or puts the safety of passengers and crew at risk.
SEATBELTS
Seatbelts must be fastened during take-off, landing, during turbulence and any time the crew deem it necessary. Keeping the belt on when you are seated provides that extra protection you might need in case of emergency. If you are responsible for an infant or a child, you must first ensure that your own seatbelt is properly fastened, then secure the child and, if it is an infant, secure the child’s or the infant’s restraints.
Important note: There are a number of events involving air turbulence that highlight the importance of keeping seatbelts fastened throughout the flight.
Though rare, in-flight turbulence is the leading cause of injuries to both passengers and crew.
Fly with a face mask
For the your own safety and the safety of your fellow passengers and crew, we ask you to wear a face mask during the entirety of your flight today. Thank you!
You Are Why We Fly
It’s a good idea to keep your seatbelt fastened even when the seatbelt signs are not on.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS AND PREGNANCIES
If you have a medical condition and may need assistance during your travel, kindly ask the Precision Air offices or agents about procedures before your flight. If you are pregnant, you will need to fill a Precision Air medical form, to be signed by your doctor, to confirm that you are OK for travel. For further details, kindly ask while booking your ticket from our sales offices and/or customer services.
PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Use of portable electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptops, tablets, MP4 players, iPads, etc are not allowed during take-off, landing, taxiing, descent and climb.
Precision Air prohibits the use of some electronic devices during flight because they emit signals that can interfere with the aircraft's instrumentation. Some of the items prohibited include cellphones, radios, remote-controlled games/toys, laser pointers, iPads or tablets that transmits frequencies, portable printers, walkie-talkies, scanners and laptops. These items need to be stowed away for these phases of the flight to avoid injuries in case of an emergency.
