From slavery to sanctuary: Changuu Island's remarkable transformation
What you need to know:
- Initially uninhabited, it became infamous in the 1860s when Sultan Majid bin Said of Zanzibar allocated it to Arab slave owners.
Unguja. Changuu Island, formerly known for its grim history, has undergone a profound transformation over the centuries.
Initially uninhabited, it became infamous in the 1860s when Sultan Majid bin Said of Zanzibar allocated it to Arab slave owners.
Today, Changuu Island stands as a testament to resilience and transformation. It hosts a resort complete with an ocean-facing swimming pool, sun loungers, and a unique restaurant housed in the former prison. Yet, its most enduring inhabitants are the Aldabra giant tortoises.
Initially a gift from the Seychelles in the 18th century, these majestic creatures thrive on the island, symbolizing endurance with lifespans of over 200 years and weighing up to 200 kilograms.
Maryam Mansab, the director of museums, emphasizes the island's historical significance, underscoring the specialized museum dedicated to preserving its rich heritage.
"We have a specialized museum on Prison Island that thoroughly explains our heritage and history,” she says.
She highlighted that the museum serves as a crucial educational resource, offering visitors a comprehensive understanding of the island's historical context and its significance within the broader narrative of the region.
The deaprtment, according to her ensures that Changuu Island's story—from its painful past to its role as a sanctuary—is preserved for future generations, fostering a deeper understanding of its place within the region's history.
Dark history
Serving as a prison for rebellious slaves, it stood as a stark reminder of the region's brutal involvement in the East African slave trade, with nearby Stone Town hosting one of the world's last open slave markets.
The abolition of slavery in Zanzibar by Sultan Seyyid Barghash in 1873 marked a turning point. However, the island's fate took another dark turn when British Consul C.S. Smith, appalled by Stone Town's prison conditions, recommended building a new facility on Changuu Island.
And that is how the island earned its moniker, ‘Prison Island’, although it never housed the intended prisoners due to health concerns.
Instead, Changuu Island found a new purpose as a quarantine station for British territories in East Africa, particularly during the shipping season between December and March.
During off-seasons, it became a favored leisure spot for Europeans and locals alike, drawn by its tranquil beaches and serene ambiance.
Sultan Seyyid Khalifa's interest further enhanced the island's appeal, leading to its gradual transformation into a popular retreat.
Changuu Island's journey from slavery to sanctuary resonates as a beacon of hope and transformation. It invites visitors to witness the remarkable Aldabra giant tortoises in their natural habitat, embodying the island's unique blend of history and natural beauty.
