History of Tanzania Part 2

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Their main depots were at Ujiji on the shores of Lake Tanganyika and at Tabora on the central plain. Their captives, generally acquired by commerce rather than force, were taken first to Bagamoyo and then to Zanzibar, where they were either put to work on plantations or shipped to the Arabian Peninsula for sale as domestic servants.

It was, nevertheless, a sordid trade, which devastated the tribes of the interior. The young and the strong were abducted, children and old people were left to die, and the few who resisted were eliminated. Mothers unable to carry both their babies and their ivory load were dispatched with a spear or machete, It’s estimated that by the late 19th century, over 1.5 million people had been transported to the coast and that 10 times that number had died along the caravan routes. Zanzibar had been ruled for decades from Oman at the mouth of the Persian Gulf.

Arab Traders & Slavers

Though the coastal area had long been the scene of maritime rivalry, first between the Portuguese and Arab traders and later between the various European powers, it was Arab traders and slavers who first penetrated the interior as far as Lake Tanganyika in the middle of the 18th century.

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Why Dar-es-salaam?

Dar es Salaam, though not a major destination on the conventional tourist route, contains plenty of lively neighborhoods and stunning sights, It cats a charm of its own, which a busy harbour, mélange of cultures, and colourful history Spend a few days getting to know the Swahili coast’s Haven of Peace and learn why people sing its praises.

Being at City Centre for a variety of attraction. The harbour contains heavy ocean – going liners as well as traditions. The harbour contains heavy ocean-going liners as well as traditional dhows, fishing boats and high-speed ferries to Zanzibar. You will find almost constant activity near the harbour, a virtual city within a city. Walk toward the east along Kivukoni Front. You’ll pass colonial structures side by side with high – rise office buildings.

Hop on the ferry to Kigamboni – only 100 Tsh for a ride to the other side – to enjoy beautiful South Beach. Kigamboni is still contained within Dar es Salaam and is even part of the same land mass. But make the brief trip a cross the harbour’s mouth and you’ll feel like you’re on a tropical island.

The lack of a bridge across the channel means that this part of town is not nearly as developed as the rest of the city, Village life is visible from the main road, the temperature automatically drops 5-6 degrees, and the noise and pollution of City Centre are distant memory. A series of hotels along the beach ranging from budget to Luxury offer many options for swimming and relaxing.

Adjacent to the ferry terminal on the City Centre side is the bustling fish market.

Recently renovated, the new structure attempts to impose some order to a very chaotic environment. Boats deliver their catches directly to the market, voice clamour for the best prices, and fish flesh flies upon contact with sharp knives. The scent is overwhelming, but for vivacity and action, this is the place to be.

Stroll down leafy Shaaban Robert Street for its sheer beauty, but also for the cooler temperatures offered by colonial- are shade trees. Keep your eyes open for the peacocks that inhabit this corner of town. In fact you’re more likely to hear the shrill creatures than to see them. While you’re there, swing by the National Museum, situated at the corner of Shaaban Robert Street and Samora Avenue. The Museum is a hidden treasure, with exhibits of cultural, ecological and historical significance. The building itself is remarkable: it contains unique sculptures, colorful tiles and intricate carvings, and is surrounded by a peaceful garden that occasionally hosts concerts and plays.

A short walk from the National Museum you’ll find the Botanical Gardens, situated adjacent to the Holiday Inn. Relax in the peaceful atmosphere and tropical beauty. Continue toward the north and you’ll come to Ocean Road. The beaches here tend to be busy on weekends and holidays, host to weddings, picnics and romantic strolls though not much swimming. During the daytime, find some shade and enjoy the cool breeze- but best street clear once dusk rolls around: it’s not the safest part of town.

If you walk the length of the beach you’ll arrive at the Aga Khan Hospital. Turn left on Ufukoni Road then head back toward on All Hassan Mwinyi Road to discover Nyumba ya Sanaa next to the Royal Palm Hotel. Also called the Nyerere Cultural Centre this multi- purpose center houses a café, artisan studious, craft sellers, travel agency, is host to music concerts and traditional dance performances Call ahead for a schedule of events.

If you’re feeling brave you’ll definitely want to experience Kariakoo. Venture toward the tight streets and colourful buildings to get a good sense of the daily goings-on for thousands of Tanzanians. An enormous structure houses the largest covered market in Africa, but the neighabourhood’s interest is not limited to the market itself.