BANZA April 2016 Issue | Page 72

Uniqueness of Zanzibar Julie: So what kind of a place is Zanzibar? Martin: “Since the early 20th century, Zanzibar has been an autonomous island loosely joined with mainland Tanzania. Due to its unique geography, Zanzibar has developed a matchless sense of tolerance for multicultural and multiracial civilizations throughout its history. Arabic rule and colonial past aside, the demographic realities of Zanzibar today reflect the cosmopolitan qualities different from, shall we say, the mainstream of African image, which forms an essential part of social life of the Swahili Coast. Like most complex and living things, in fact, Zanzibar refuses to be thrust into neat bags. My home is an extremely lively island immersed in the spirit of Dhow Countries. Like the ancient Silk Road, Dhow is about connecting different peoples and cultures.” Julie: Zanzibar, ZIFF, is relevant in today’s globalizing world? Martin: “A film festival always creates a community around it. If not, it’s the first sign of its failure. What does ZIFF stand for? ZIFF is for people who feel about Zanzibar and its larger context and environment, about African people, especially our women and children. I want ZIFF to be a home for African voices.” >> 72