Salt and Stone
‘Salt and Stone’ is a two‑year project dedicated to safeguarding Swahili coastal heritage in Zanzibar and the Comoros. The project focuses on the restoration of two historic buildings facing accelerating climate‑related threats, including sea‑level rise, salinisation, increased humidity, and more frequent extreme weather events.
Salt and Stone safeguards Swahili coastal heritage in Zanzibar and the Comoros, combining architectural conservation, climate adaptation and community participation to protect two historic buildings and strengthen the skills needed for their long-term care.
At Ba’mnara Mosque in Stone Town, Zanzibar, conservation will address salt damage, moisture and deterioration of the coral stone structure, protecting an important landmark that remains an active place of worship. At Swaniani Princely House in Mutsamudu, Comoros, work will conserve historic timber, decorative plasterwork and masonry, supporting its future as an accessible cultural space for young people.
Practical training in timber repair, stone masonry and lime plaster techniques will strengthen the local conservation workforce, with particular emphasis on opportunities for women and young people, while community engagement, including school heritage activities and climate awareness programmes, will connect residents with the buildings and encourage participation in their protection.
Exchanges between practitioners in Zanzibar, the Comoros and the UK will combine local expertise with wider experience in climate adaptation and heritage management. A regional conference will share learning across East Africa and the Indian Ocean, helping other coastal communities respond to similar challenges and sustain their heritage for future generations.
Project Details
Location: Moutsamoudou, Comoros, Tanzania, United Kingdom, Eastern Africa, Northern Europe, Africa, Europe
Organiser(s):
International National Trusts Organisation (INTO)
Project partner(s): Zanzibar Stone Town Heritage Society, Collectif du Patrimoine des Comores
Funder(s):
ALIPH
Funding received: $500,000 USD
Commencement Date: 02/2026
Project Status: Active
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