Pemba: Chake Chake – Around the Town

Pemba Island, historically part of the Indian Ocean trade network, was frequented by Arab traders, Persian settlers, and Portuguese explorers. Chake Chake served as a central location for commerce and administration, with influences from these various cultures shaping its development. The Omani Arabs, who ruled Zanzibar for centuries, left a lasting cultural and architectural impact on Chake Chake, evident in the old buildings and ruins scattered around the area. The town became part of British East Africa in the late 19th century before joining Tanzania in 1964, following Zanzibar’s revolution and unification. Attractions include the Mkama Ndume Fort, Omani-build fort and lots of historic building from the 20th century built by the British. Not much new has been built since.