Mixed reaction as Zanzibar suspends Forodhani divers

Unguja. The Zanzibar Stone Town Conservation and Management Authority has temporarily suspended the popular Forodhani Makachu diving group, sparking mixed reactions from local youth and stakeholders who are concerned about its impact on their livelihoods and the tourism sector.

The authority announced that it will offer special contracts for those who agree to follow new guidelines, while those who fail to comply will no longer be allowed to participate in the game.

A public statement issued on Sunday and confirmed by the agency’s director general, Mr Ali Abubakar, cited violations of laws and guidelines as the reason for the suspension.

The statement highlighted incidents such as Makachu performances using inappropriate attire, significant damage to local infrastructure, including drainage systems, and the use of garbage cans for comedic stunts.

“The government acknowledges the contribution of Makachu in promoting tourism. We are continuing our investigation, and those responsible for these violations will be dealt with according to the law,” the statement read.

Speaking to The Citizen, some youth involved in the activity expressed concerns that the suspension would affect their income but remained hopeful that they would resume soon.

“It’s challenging, but we have no choice. Once the suspension is lifted, we will continue as usual,” said Mr Ali Shaib, also known as Kibu.

Another participant, Albaiya Mussa, emphasised that Makachu is a crucial source of income, and while the suspension is affecting them, they are committed to following the rules when they resume.

“The game is our livelihood, but we understand that we must follow the regulations. We will ensure that everything is in order when it restarts,” Mr Mussa said.

Some of the youth claimed that they met with the authority’s leadership last Sunday and were informed that the suspension would last for three days, saying that they were expecting to return to action tomorrow.

However, the authority’s director general, Ali Abubakar, said no specific timeline had been set, as the authority was working on a new operational framework.

“For now, we’ve issued our statement. We are in the process of developing a new procedure and will introduce individual contracts for those who wish to return,” he said.

“We will not allow everyone to return at once. Each individual will return based on their agreement after signing a contract. Those who fail to meet the terms will not be allowed to participate anymore,” he added.

Regarding the terms and criteria for the contracts, he confirmed they were still being finalised.

Some key supporters of the Makachu, endorsed the temporary suspension, acknowledging that some individuals had been abusing the space for personal gain rather than adhering to the agreed-upon regulations.

“I recognise that Makachu offers a significant opportunity for young people to earn a living and promote Zanzibar, but some have strayed from the rules, engaging in inappropriate behaviours,” a supporter identified as Abdulsamad said.

According to him, the suspension will provide an opportunity for the youth to reassess and reorganise, ensuring that any misconduct is addressed.

“As a supporter of the Makachu game, we cannot ignore misconduct. We all have a role in building this country, and when we see people deviating from the rules, we must educate them and the community. We need to discourage harmful behaviours and offer guidance to prevent further mistakes,” he emphasised.

He called for collaboration between the government and stakeholders to educate the youth on discipline, set new guidelines, and implement proper regulations.