A Turkish woman’s experience in Zanzibar provides an insightful look into the island’s vibrant cultural history, distinctive traditions, and social landscape.
Şule Yavuzer, a Turkish graphic designer with a deep interest in Africa, relocated to Zanzibar in 2018, where she explored the island’s art, history, and Islamic culture. Collaborating with publishing houses from both Tanzania and Turkey, she helped create children’s books while also operating a restaurant with her husband, promoting Turkish cuisine. Through her experiences, she highlights Zanzibar’s cultural fusion of African, Arab, Indian, and European elements, as well as the lasting Ottoman influence, portraying the island as both a dynamic tourist attraction and a cultural treasure.
The Exotic Allure of Zanzibar
Zanzibar, a semi-autonomous island under Tanzania, is one of the world’s premier destinations for exotic tourism. Its rich history, cultural diversity, and economic dynamics are deeply intertwined with those of mainland Tanzania. Throughout its past, Zanzibar has been home to communities of Indian, Arab, African, and Indonesian origins living in harmony. Today, with a population that is 98% Muslim, the island thrives on tourism, fishing, and the spice trade, with cloves standing out as an iconic product.
While Zanzibar’s political structure is integrated with Tanzania’s federal system, it maintains its own presidency and cabinet. The island’s residents are highly attuned to international politics, with their solidarity for Palestine evident in the numerous Palestinian flags displayed on its streets.
This month, we delved into the island’s history, culture, and social dynamics through the lens of Şule Yavuzer, a Turkish woman who lives and works in Zanzibar.
A Journey to Zanzibar Fueled by a Passion for Africa
Born in Çorum in 1991, Şule Yavuzer graduated from the Faculty of Theology but carved out a career in graphic design and illustration. Her fascination with Zanzibar began during her middle school years after reading Jules Verne’s Five Weeks in a Balloon. Her interest in Africa eventually brought her to Zanzibar in 2018 through volunteer work. During this time, she immersed herself in design projects, explored local art, and even organized exhibitions on Swahili Islamic art.
Today, she collaborates with publishing houses in Tanzania and Turkey to create children’s books. She also met her husband on the island, and together, they run a restaurant introducing Turkish cuisine to Zanzibar’s diverse population.
Zanzibar’s Cultural and Architectural Wealth
Zanzibar’s architecture is a unique blend of influences from Portugal, Iran, India, and Oman. According to Şule, the island’s urban fabric reflects the hallmark features of Swahili cities. Its historical richness is evident in archaeological finds from the 1980s, including Chinese bronze, Indian artifacts, and African designs.
The ties between the Ottoman Empire and Zanzibar run deep. Sultan Abdulhamid’s interest in the region is visible in the landmarks he influenced. For instance, a 1925 building now used as a museum exhibits architectural elements inspired by Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia. Additionally, flags sent by the Ottomans and works commissioned by Hacı Emin Pasha have significantly enriched the region’s Islamic heritage.
Daily Life and Social Dynamics
Life on the island is defined by a calm, unhurried pace. The “pole pole” (slowly, slowly) philosophy shapes the rhythm of life in Zanzibar. Days begin with the morning prayer, with most work completed in the early hours. However, rural areas face challenges due to limited access to modern conveniences. Frequent electricity and water shortages, coupled with a lack of basic appliances like refrigerators, impact daily routines.
Living on the island is also costly, as many staples such as oil and basic foods are imported. Local diets rely heavily on carbohydrates and pastries, with traditional dishes like coconut milk-infused fried foods and “ugali” holding cultural significance.
Traces of Turkish Culture and Future Opportunities
Turkish products enjoy considerable popularity in Zanzibar, particularly modest fashion and textiles, which are regarded as prestigious. Infrastructure projects, such as Turkey’s railway initiatives in Tanzania, have further solidified the Turkish presence on the island.
One of Şule’s ambitious projects is to establish a publishing house named “Sanduk” with a local partner. The goal is to produce children’s books in Swahili and promote deeper academic exploration of Ottoman-Zanzibar relations.
Tips for Visiting Zanzibar
Visitors to Zanzibar are encouraged to immerse themselves in the local culture by listening to “tarap” music, purchasing vibrant kanga fabrics, and sampling traditional dishes. Kanga fabrics, adorned with proverbs, offer a glimpse into the island’s cultural depth and storytelling traditions.
Conclusion
Şule Yavuzer’s life in Zanzibar is a tale of personal growth and cultural immersion. This enchanting African island offers Turkish visitors a unique blend of historical richness and cultural diversity. Beyond its appeal as a tourist haven, Zanzibar emerges as a cultural treasure, where the echoes of the past blend seamlessly with the vibrancy of the present.
