Zanzibar spice farms create jobs for 73 youths
Spice tourism on the islands offers economic opportunities beyond traditional farming.
Zanzibar's spice farms are transforming agricultural heritage into employment for young people. Hassan Hamad, owner of Zito Spice Tour in Dole, Unguja, employs over 73 young individuals in roles ranging from cultivation to guiding visitors. His farm, inherited from his parents, now attracts international tourists interested in how spices like cloves and cinnamon are grown.
Spice tourism, which gained prominence around 1995, allows visitors to experience spice origins firsthand, moving beyond simple purchases. Kassim Malik Kassimu, a manager at Zito Spice Tour, notes that tourists are fascinated by seeing the plants and learning about cultivation and traditional uses. This familiarity gives local employees an advantage in serving visitors.
The farm offers employment and income to young people, helping them sustain their livelihoods while promoting the islands' historical identity. Beyond cloves, farms cultivate spices such as black pepper, ginger, cardamom, turmeric, and vanilla, diversifying the tourist experience and creating more opportunities.
Why it mattersYoung people in Zanzibar are finding employment and income through spice tourism on local farms.