The Controversy Over the Proposed Resort in Zanzibar’s Ngezi Forest

The term “eco-resort” implies a commitment to sustainability, but how sustainable is it to clear land, introduce heavy machinery, and disrupt an already fragile ecosystem?

Written by Warrence Oghenevwegba
Published on: February 15, 2025, 11:27 P.M

When I first read about the proposal to build an “eco-resort” within the Ngezi Forest Reserve in Zanzibar, I had mixed feelings. On one hand, I understand the economic opportunities that tourism brings, especially in regions like Pemba Island, where sustainable development is needed. On the other, I can’t ignore the environmental impact of such a project, particularly when it threatens rare and endangered species.

A recent discovery of Intsia bijuga trees in this very forest has raised alarms among conservationists. These trees, not known to grow wild anywhere else in Africa, were found during a detailed botanical survey. This should have been a reason to strengthen protections around the forest, not a justification for more development. So, why are we even debating whether to build a resort in a place that just revealed itself as an ecological treasure?

What Is at Stake?

The Ngezi Forest Reserve is one of the last remaining coastal forests in Zanzibar. It is home to countless endemic plant and animal species, many of which are still being studied. The idea of an eco-resort, in theory, sounds like a great way to promote sustainable tourism while offering economic benefits to the local community. However, when you dig deeper, you start to see the contradictions.

The term “eco-resort” implies a commitment to sustainability, but how sustainable is it to clear land, introduce heavy machinery, and disrupt an already fragile ecosystem? Even if developers promise minimal environmental damage, history has shown that once construction begins, the consequences can be unpredictable and often irreversible. Roads have to be built, utilities installed, and waste managed—each of these actions comes with a footprint that changes the landscape forever.

The Broader Trend in Zanzibar

Zanzibar has become a hotspot for luxury tourism in recent years. The recent announcement of a Four Seasons Resort in Pongwe and another new development by ROBINSON on Muyuni Beach highlights a growing trend—large-scale investments in high-end resorts marketed as eco-friendly escapes.

But what does eco-friendly really mean in these cases? Is it about reducing plastic use and installing solar panels, or should it also consider the protection of natural habitats? Many of these resorts are built along Zanzibar’s pristine coastline, but now we are seeing expansion into forest reserves. This shift raises a major concern—are we sacrificing untouched wilderness for the sake of more luxury retreats?

The Role of Local Communities

Whenever a project like this is proposed, developers talk about how it will benefit the local community. They promise jobs, infrastructure, and a boost to the local economy. But too often, the reality is different. Many of the jobs created are low-paying service roles, while the real profits go to foreign investors.

There is also the issue of land rights and access. Will local communities still be able to use parts of the forest they have traditionally relied on for resources? Or will access be restricted to cater to high-paying tourists looking for an exclusive experience? If this resort is truly about sustainability, then the voices of the people living around the forest should carry just as much weight as those of investors and government officials.

Is There a Middle Ground?

It is easy to say “no” to development outright, but that doesn’t solve the larger issue of economic growth and sustainability. Zanzibar does need investment, and tourism is one of its biggest industries. However, we need to be clear about what kind of development is genuinely sustainable and what is simply marketed that way.

Instead of clearing parts of the forest for an entirely new resort, why not invest in eco-tourism models that work with, rather than against, the environment? Community-led conservation tourism, where visitors can experience nature without disturbing it, has been successful in places like Costa Rica. What if this approach was considered for Ngezi Forest? A model that allows for guided tours, small eco-lodges outside the reserve, and direct benefits to local communities could achieve the economic goals without sacrificing biodiversity.

A Decision That Will Shape the Future

The debate over this resort is more than just a local issue. It is a test case for how we balance conservation with development in the modern world. If we allow protected forests to be gradually opened up for commercial use, what message does that send about our commitment to biodiversity?

I am not against tourism, and I am not against progress. But progress should not come at the cost of losing irreplaceable ecosystems. If an “eco-resort” truly cannot exist without harming the environment it claims to celebrate, then perhaps it is not as eco-friendly as it seems.

Zanzibar has an opportunity here—to lead the way in demonstrating what real sustainable tourism looks like. Will it take the chance, or will it follow the path of so many other places where conservation loses to corporate interests?