Zanzibar Commemorates 152 Years Since Abolition of Slave Trade, Emphasizing Historical Preservation and National Healing
In a powerful ceremony at the historic Anglican Cathedral in Stone Town, Zanzibar’s First Vice President delivered a compelling message about the importance of preserving the nation’s complete historical narrative, highlighting both triumphs and painful chapters.
Speaking at the commemoration marking 152 years since the official end of the slave trade on June 6, 1873, the Vice President stressed the critical need for historical documentation based on truth and justice. “History must not be written with a political pen. Rather, it should be based on truth and justice, for the benefit of both current and future generations,” he emphasized.
The event underscored Zanzibar’s commitment to national healing and historical transparency. The government has officially incorporated the commemoration into its tourism and heritage agenda, demonstrating a proactive approach to preserving historical memory.
Key initiatives revealed during the ceremony include:
– Identification and preservation of historical slave trade sites across Unguja and Pemba
– Publication of a bilingual book chronicling slavery’s history
– Ongoing restoration of heritage sites
– Plans to establish a museum honoring the nation’s revolutionary founder
The Vice President highlighted that these commemorations are not political exercises but academic and cultural platforms for dialogue and unified national memory. The event also showcased Zanzibar’s growing engagement with global heritage preservation efforts.
Religious leaders present called for continued recognition of historical injustices and an end to modern forms of exploitation, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of remembering and learning from historical struggles.
The commemoration represents a significant moment in Zanzibar’s ongoing journey of historical reconciliation and cultural understanding, demonstrating the nation’s commitment to preserving its complex historical legacy.
