Zanzibar is experiencing a tourism surge as international travelers flock to its white-sand beaches and UNESCO-listed Stone Town. Once driven by its spice trade, the island’s economy now leans heavily on tourism, which contributes over 80% of its waste—highlighting growing concerns about sustainability and infrastructure strain.

 

Local residents are ambivalent. While tourism brings economic opportunity, over half of Zanzibar's two million inhabitants live below the poverty line. Many don't benefit from the influx of foreign investment, which increasingly favors large international hotel chains. Critics worry these developments receive preferential treatment and skirt local regulations.

 

Cultural tensions are also rising. "99 percent of people here are Muslim," says local resident Launi Makame, who says visitors need to respect local customs. His wife, German-born Sine Heitmann, adds that tourism expansion is outpacing infrastructure, pointing to illegal rubbish dumps and power outages.

 

Environmental concerns are mounting. The island’s only landfill, located in Kibele, is overwhelmed, with only half of the waste making it to official disposal.  Illegal dumping is a widespread problem.

 

Yet there are also grassroots initiatives like Chako Recycling that are transforming glass waste into household goods, offering glimpses of a circular economy.

 

Despite the strain, Zanzibar remains a cultural mosaic with a vibrant social scene and distinctive local charm. Industry insiders warn that the island’s unique flair is at risk. “We have to evolve,” says travel operator Dumagude Porsche, “but we're slightly losing authenticity.”

 

As tourism continues to expand, the island faces a dilemma: how to preserve its identity while managing rapid growth. Without a balanced approach, the paradise that travelers seek may slowly vanish under its own popularity.