Zanzibar invests USD 12 million in restoring the world heritage sites on the Islands
In a move aimed at strengthening cultural preservation, the government of Zanzibar has launched a major heritage restoration drive which is complemented a US$12 million public–private investment.
This is also due to the government’s expansion of the islands’ global tourism appeal.
The agreement, signed between the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar and Infinity Developments, will restore and modernise several historic sites across the archipelago, including locations within and beyond Stone Town, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic centre that draws visitors from around the world.
The project, according to officials, represents one of the most significant heritage-focused public–private partnerships in Zanzibar in recent years.
The project positions cultural preservation as a central pillar of long-term economic development.
The restoration programme will cover several major heritage sites, including the Old Fort, the High Court Museum, and several historic bath complexes — the Hamamni Persian Baths, Forodhani Hamam Baths, Kidichi Hamam Baths, and Kizimbani Hamam Baths.
Planned works include conservation and restoration, infrastructure upgrades, and improvements to visitor facilities and cultural programming.
The investment will be delivered through Infinity’s cultural programme and is intended to support both preservation and tourism development, sectors that play a critical role in Zanzibar’s economy.
At the ceremony, Aboud Suleiman Jumbe, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism and Heritage, Zanzibar, described the partnership as a turning point for the protection of the islands’ cultural legacy, combining Heritage preservation and tourism growth
He said the initiative aligns with the economic and tourism agenda of Hussein Ali Mwinyi, which emphasizes heritage-led development as a driver of social and economic progress.
Meanwhile, Khamis Suleiman Mwalimu of the Ministry of Labour and Investments, Zanzibar, said the partnership reflects Zanzibar’s commitment to attracting private investment through transparent and competitive frameworks. He noted the project is expected to generate employment, support entrepreneurship, and stimulate wider economic activity linked to tourism.
For Infinity Developments, the project is both a conservation effort and a long-term cultural investment.
Chief executive and Chairman, Samuel Saba, said Zanzibar’s heritage holds global significance and deserves sustained protection.
“This investment is not only about restoration — it is about creating vibrant cultural spaces that inspire learning, tourism, and community pride for generations to come,” he said.