Zanzibar Authority halts Forodhani street performances amid cultural and safety concerns

Dar es Salaam. The Old Town Conservation and Development Authority in Zanzibar has temporarily banned street performances, commonly referred to as makachu, at Forodhani Gardens. The decision follows reports of activities contravening Zanzibar’s ethical standards and damage to the area’s infrastructure.

In a statement, the Authority cited breaches of laws and cultural norms, including performers donning attire inconsistent with local traditions, vandalising drainage systems, and using waste bins as props in comedic acts. The move aims to address these issues while developing a structured framework to regulate the performances, which are recognised for their role in boosting Zanzibar’s tourism profile globally.

Initially a leisure activity, makachu has evolved into a significant marketing strategy, adopted by corporate entities and non-governmental organisations to promote events, campaigns, and products. The daring acrobatics, often performed against the scenic backdrop of Zanzibar’s beaches, have attracted global attention, with international celebrities such as Lupita Nyong’o endorsing the island’s allure. The performers’ social media presence has positioned them as cultural ambassadors, urging high-profile visitors to explore Zanzibar’s beauty.

Despite its popularity, makachu poses serious risks. Performers often face the potential for severe injuries, sometimes with life-altering consequences. Ahmed Abdallah Hamid, a once-prominent diver, suffered spinal injuries after misjudging the water depth and striking a submerged rock. His accident left him paralysed and bedridden for the past five years, highlighting the inherent dangers of the sport.

The ban also comes in the wake of a viral video showing foreign tourists participating in makachu at Forodhani Gardens, dressed in a manner perceived as inappropriate under Zanzibar’s cultural norms.

While the Old Town Authority has assured the public of its commitment to preserving the iconic Forodhani Gardens and enforcing legal measures against those responsible for misconduct, the decision has sparked debate. Critics question how the ban will impact tourism, given makachu's role in promoting the island internationally.

As the Authority works towards a resolution, many are calling for a balanced approach that safeguards cultural values while embracing the unique potential of makachu as both a spectacle and a promotional asset for Zanzibar.