ZANZIBAR: MEDIA practitioners and members of the community have been urged to strengthen collaboration and come up with innovative measures to protect Zanzibar’s iconic Stone Town from the impacts of climate change.
This call was made by an environmentalist and climate change expert, Dr Salim Bakar during a one-day media engagement event.
“Addressing climate change requires strong joint efforts and cooperation to minimise its effects on our land. Journalists and the media in general have a crucial role to play,” Dr Bakar said.
The event, held at the Old Customs House in Mizingani, was organised by the Zanzibar Stone Town Heritage Society (ZSTHS) to encourage journalists to raise public awareness about the importance of conserving heritage sites and other areas vulnerable to climate change.
Dr Bakar, who heads the climate change department in the office of Zanzibar’s First Vice-President, explained that the impacts of climate change are already being felt at Stone Town.
Rising sea levels are causing coastal erosion, while increased humidity is damaging the walls and building materials of the historic houses in the area.
“Through journalists and media outlets, we can make a difference. We want people to understand their responsibility in implementing adaptation and mitigation measures. We must stop cutting down trees and reduce emissions,” Dr Bakar emphasised.
Chairperson of the ZSTHS, Dr Maryam Jaffar Ismail, insisted the important role of journalists and the media in raising public awareness.
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She stressed that it is crucial for everyone at Stone Town, as well as stakeholders, to take action to protect the UNESCO’s recognised heritage site.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the ZSTHS, Mr Makame Juma Mtwana also addressed the challenges facing Stone Town.
He pointed out that, in addition to sea-level rise and moisture-related damage to buildings, the use of heavy motor vehicles weighing more than two tonnes is a growing concern. These vehicles cause vibrations that further threaten the integrity of the historic houses.
“We’ve reached out to nearly all groups and stakeholders of Stone Town, including the media, because the risks of damage to this historic site are high.
We’ve been making repairs to strengthen buildings against moisture and rust and we’re planting trees, such as mangroves, in coastal areas to mitigate the impact of climate change,” said Mr Mtwana.
