The government has suspended construction and demolition activities at the former Zanzibar Hotel site in Shangani, Stone Town, following allegations of damage to residents’ buildings and public access routes used by both locals and tourists.
The decision, announced on October 9, 2026, by the Minister for Tourism and Antiquities, Dr Nasra Nassor Omar, is aimed at protecting residents’ rights, ensuring compliance with construction regulations and preserving Zanzibar’s historic heritage.
Dr Nasra issued the directive during an unannounced inspection of the site, ordering all construction and demolition work to stop immediately as authorities investigate the allegations.
The minister said there were concerns that the developers had carried out activities beyond the boundaries of the area allocated to them, raising questions about compliance with the relevant permits and conservation procedures.
She directed the contractors and other parties involved in the project to appear before the responsible heritage conservation authorities to explain their actions and have their permits verified.
“I reiterate that all activities must stop immediately, and those involved must appear before the authorities responsible for conserving Stone Town to provide explanations and have their permits verified,” she said.
The suspension follows allegations that contractors working on the hotel project demolished or damaged residents’ buildings without adequately involving them. The project is also accused of affecting routes used by residents and tourists to access different parts of Stone Town.
Dr Nasra stressed the need for a thorough assessment to establish the extent of the alleged damage and determine whether the rights of residents and applicable laws had been violated.
“An assessment of the damage caused must be conducted, and appropriate action taken in accordance with the law,” she said.
The minister emphasised that while Zanzibar welcomes investors who contribute to economic growth and job creation, investment projects must not come at the expense of local communities, their property rights or the islands’ historical identity.
She said developers must operate within approved boundaries, follow the law and respect the interests of residents who live and conduct business in the area.
“Stone Town is the heritage of Zanzibar and the world, and we have a responsibility to protect it,” Dr Nasra said.
She warned that Stone Town could not be treated as an area where buildings are demolished or construction carried out without proper authorisation and regard for conservation requirements.
“We welcome investment, but it must respect the law, property boundaries, citizens’ rights and the procedures for conserving our heritage,” she emphasised.
The suspension gives the relevant authorities an opportunity to verify the project’s permits, assess the alleged damage and establish whether further legal action is necessary. The findings will be important in determining the appropriate measures to protect affected residents and prevent similar incidents.
For residents, the matter goes beyond construction regulations. It raises concerns about the protection of homes, access routes and the right of local communities to be respected when development projects are undertaken in their neighbourhoods.
Stone Town is a major tourism destination whose historic buildings, streets and cultural identity contribute to Zanzibar’s economy and international reputation. Protecting these assets while ensuring that residents’ rights are upheld remains essential to sustainable development.
Dr Nasra is currently visiting tourism attractions across Zanzibar as part of government efforts to monitor the sector and strengthen the conservation of the islands’ historical heritage.
The government’s position is that investment remains welcome, but developers must operate within the law, respect local communities and protect the heritage that makes Zanzibar unique.