Zanzibar's Makachu divers turn to Dar es Salaam amid suspension in the islands

Dar es Salaam. Zanzibar’s famed Makachu divers have relocated their performances to Coco Beach in Dar es Salaam following a suspension imposed by the Zanzibar Stone Town Conservation and Management Authority.

The suspension, announced in a public statement last week, halted all Makachu activities in Forodhani Gardens due to alleged violations of local laws and guidelines.

These included the misuse of public infrastructure and inappropriate conduct during performances, according to the authority.

The move has sparked significant discussion online, with videos circulating on social media showing the divers adapting their acts to the new setting at Coco Beach.

These clips have drawn mixed reactions, with some praising the performers’ resilience while others question the shift’s impact on their traditional roots.

Speaking anonymously, one of the divers acknowledged the challenges of the relocation but expressed optimism about continuing their craft in Dar es Salaam.

“The situation in Zanzibar has made things difficult, but Coco Beach offers a new space for us to keep performing while we wait for clarity from the authorities,” he said.

The Zanzibar Stone Town Conservation and Management Authority maintains that the suspension was necessary to enforce discipline and protect public property.

Director General Ali Abubakar emphasised that a framework involving individual contracts is being developed for those wishing to return to Forodhani under stricter regulations.

Meanwhile, Dar es Salaam residents have been quick to embrace the divers, whose daring stunts and unique entertainment style have already begun attracting crowds at Coco Beach.

However, the long-term implications of the move remain unclear, both for the performers and their cultural significance tied to Zanzibar’s identity.

As the debate continues, the spotlight remains on the Makachu divers, whose relocation underscores the delicate balance between tradition, tourism, and modern regulations in Zanzibar’s evolving cultural landscape.

For now, the divers are determined to make the most of their new stage in Dar es Salaam, navigating an uncertain future while maintaining the artistry that has made them a staple of coastal tourism.