Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Reading Time: 6 minutes

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Region: Dar es Salaam


Geographic Coordinates: -6.816100, 39.280300
Temperature Range: 25.0°C to 35.0°C (77°F to 95°F)
Climate: Tropical climate with rainy and dry seasons.
Population: 7962000
Language: Swahili

Dar es Salaam is the largest city in Tanzania and was its former capital. It is situated on the eastern coast of Africa and serves as the country’s economic hub, With a population of over six million people. The name Dar es Salaam means house of peace in Arabic, Reflecting its history as a trading center for Arab merchants. The city has a rich cultural heritage that can be seen in its architecture, Cuisine, And traditions. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Askari Monument or admire the beautiful architecture of St. Joseph’s Cathedral.

Dar es Salaam is famous for its beaches along its coastline such as Coco Beach and Kunduchi Beach where visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Indian Ocean under palm trees. For those interested in wildlife conservation, Dar es Salaam offers opportunities to visit national parks like Mikumi National Park or Saadani National Park to see animals roaming freely in their natural habitat. The city also has a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars and clubs offering live music performances by local artists playing traditional Tanzanian music genres like Bongo Flava or Taarab music.

Food lovers will not be disappointed with Dar es Salaam’s diverse food scene influenced by Indian, Chinese and African cuisines. Visitors can sample traditional Tanzanian dishes like Ugali (a cornmeal porridge), Nyama Choma (grilled meat) or Pilau (spiced rice dish).

but not least important to mention is that Dar es salaam hosts some major events throughout the year including Saba Saba Trade Fair which brings together local entrepreneurs to showcase their products; Mwaka Kogwa Festival celebrated by Zanzibar people living around Bagomoyo where they celebrate new year according to their calendar; And the famous International Film Festival of Tanzania (TAFF) which showcases films from all over the world. Dar es Salaam is an excellent destination for those looking to experience African culture and explore its natural beauty.



Important Landmarks

  1. National Museum of Tanzania
  2. Askari Monument
  3. Kivukoni Fish Market
  4. St. Joseph’s Cathedral
  5. Village Museum
  6. Bongoyo Island
  7. Kunduchi Wet ‘N’ Wild Water Park
  8. Mlimani City Shopping Mall
  9. Dar es Salaam Zoo and Botanical Gardens
  10. Makumbusho Cultural Centre

Primary Industries

Major Industries and Businesses in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

  1. Port and Shipping
  2. Agriculture
  3. Manufacturing
  4. Tourism
  5. Banking and Finance
  6. Construction
  7. Telecoms & IT Services
  8. Education & Health Services
  9. Transportation

Details on Each Industry/Business:

  1. Port and Shipping

    Dar es Salaam boasts the largest port in Tanzania which handles over 90% of the country’s international trade.

  2. Agriculture

    The city is surrounded by fertile lands that support agriculture including crops such as maize, rice, beans and cassava.

  3. Manufacturing

    There are several manufacturing industries producing textiles, food products beverages pharmaceuticals and consumer goods.

  4. Tourism

    Tourism is a growing industry in Dar es Salaam due to its proximity to Zanzibar Island and other popular destinations within Tanzania.

  5. Banking and Finance

    The city has a thriving banking sector with several local and international banks operating within its borders.

  6. Construction

    With rapid urbanization taking place in the city there has been an increase in construction activity ranging from residential buildings to commercial structures like malls.

  7. Telecoms & IT Services

    Telecoms & IT services have seen significant growth over recent years with companies providing internet services across the country headquartered here.

  8. Education & Health Services

    Education & Health Services are also important sectors catering for a population of over 6 million people with many schools/colleges/universities as well as hospitals/clinics available.

  9. Transportation

    Transportation is also crucial for the city’s economy with numerous companies providing services ranging from public transport (buses/taxis) to logistics (freight forwarding).


Noteable History

  1. Dar es Salaam was founded as a small fishing village in the mid-19th century by Sultan Majid bin Said of Zanzibar.
  2. In 1885, Germany declared Tanzania a protectorate and established its capital in Dar es Salaam, which remained the capital until 1974.
  3. Julius Kambarage Nyerere was a Tanzanian politician who served as the country’s first president from 1961 to 1985. He played a key role in the country’s independence movement and is considered one of Africa’s most respected leaders.
  4. During World War I, British troops captured Dar es Salaam from German forces in 1916 and made it their East African headquarters.
  5. On December 9, 1961, Tanganyika (which included present-day Tanzania) gained independence from Britain with Dar es Salaam as its capital.
  6. In April 1964, Tanganyika united with Zanzibar to form the United Republic of Tanzania with Dar es Salaam remaining as its commercial and administrative center.
  7. The University of Dar es Salaam was renamed Mwalimu Nyerere University after Julius Nyerere’s death in recognition of his contributions to education in Tanzania.
  8. Many African liberation movements had their headquarters or bases in Dar es Salaam during the struggle for independence including those from Mozambique, Zimbabwe (then Rhodesia), Namibia and South Africa among others.
  9. Due to its strategic location on East Africa’s coast facing Indian Ocean many traders have used it for centuries making it an important center for trade between Africa and Asia especially India.
  10. It is home to the National Museum of Tanzania which houses some of the world’s most important fossils, including those of early human ancestors such as Australopithecus boisei.

Museums and Things To See

  1. National Museum of Tanzania
  2. Village Museum
  3. Askari Monument
  4. Kivukoni Fish Market
  5. Tingatinga Arts Cooperative Society
  6. Dar es Salaam Botanical Gardens
  7. Mwalimu Julius K Nyerere Cultural Centre
  8. Azania Front Lutheran Church
  9. St Joseph’s Cathedral, Dar es Salaam
  10. Bongoyo Island


Sports Teams

  1. Simba Sports Club is one of the oldest and most successful football clubs in Tanzania, founded in 1936. They have won numerous domestic titles and have a large fan base in Dar es Salaam.
  2. Young Africans Sports Club, also known as Yanga, was founded in 1935 and has a fierce rivalry with Simba SC. They have also won many domestic titles over the years.
  3. Azam Football Club is a relatively new football club established in 2007 but has quickly become one of the top teams in Tanzania. They are based in Dar es Salaam and have won several domestic titles.
  4. JKT Ruvu Stars was founded by the Tanzanian army in 1977 and is based in Dar es Salaam. They have had some success over the years, including winning the Tanzanian Cup twice.
  5. Toto Africans Football Club is another popular football club based in Dar es Salaam, founded back in 1964. They are known for their passionate fan base despite not having any major titles to their name yet.
  6. Vijana Aces Football Club was created by youth players from various clubs around Tanzania who wanted to compete at a higher level. They play their home matches at Uhuru Stadium located at Dar es Salaam.
  7. Msambweni United plays soccer under Msambweni District League located at Msambweni District, Kwale County Coast Region, Tanzania.


Cultural Events

  1. Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair: This annual event occurs in July and features products and services from different countries.
  2. Sauti za Busara Music Festival: Celebrated every February, this festival honors African music with performances by both local and international artists.
  3. Mwaka Kogwa Festival: The Zanzibari community in Dar es Salaam celebrates this traditional festival during the first week of January.
  4. Bagamoyo Arts Festival: This yearly event is held in September and showcases music, dance, theater, and visual arts performances.
  5. Eid al-Fitr: A Muslim festival that takes place at the end of Ramadan to mark the end of fasting with prayer, feasting, and gift-giving.
  6. Nyerere Day: Tanzania observes this national holiday on October 14th to commemorate Julius Nyerere – the country’s first president who led them to independence from British colonial rule.
  7. Karibu Travel & Tourism Fair: This fair happens annually in June to promote tourism to Tanzania through exhibitions highlighting various attractions across the country such as wildlife safaris, beaches, cultural sites among others.
  8. Kigamboni Community Festival – A yearly event that celebrates local culture through music performances as well as traditional dances like ngoma ya wakulima (farmers’ dance) among others

Cuisine

  1. Nyama Choma is a popular dish in Tanzania that consists of grilled meat served with vegetables and sauces. Some of the best places to try nyama choma in Dar es Salaam include:

    • Mamboz Corner BBQ
    • Mlimani City BBQ
    • Kilimanjaro BBQ
  2. Ugali is a staple food in Tanzania made from maize flour and often served with fish or meat dishes. Some of the best places to try ugali and fish in Dar es Salaam include:

    • Karambezi Café
    • Slipway Restaurant
    • Coco Beach Seafood Restaurant
  3. Zanzibari Cuisine is unique due to its influences from Indian, Arab, and African flavors. Some popular Zanzibari restaurants in Dar es Salaam include:

    • The Swahili House Restaurant & Bar
    • Mbalamwezi Beach Club
  4. Samosas are a popular snack in Tanzania made from pastry filled with spiced vegetables or meat. Some of the best places to try samosas in Dar es Salaam include:

    • Food Inn India Restaurant & Bakery
    • Jafferji’s Kitchen
  5. Chapati Rolls are another popular street food snack made from flatbread filled with spicy chicken or beef curry, vegetables, or eggs. Some great places to try chapati rolls in Dar es Salaam include:

    • Mama’s Kitchen Cafe & Grill
    • Aroma Cafe & Lounge
  6. Tanzanian Coffee is known for its high quality beans grown on Mount Kilimanjaro slopes; some great cafes that serve Tanzanian coffee are:

    • Kahawa House Coffee Shoppe at Slipway Road Masaki Peninsula Area
    • Roastery 361 Degrees at Mikocheni B Area
    • Rombo Green View Lodge at Moshi Town near Kilimanjaro National Park

Parks and Recreation

  1. Dar es Salaam Botanical Gardens
  2. Coco Beach
  3. Kunduchi Wet ‘N’ Wild Water Park
  4. Mbezi Beach Park
  5. Oyster Bay Beach
  6. Bongoyo Island Marine Reserve
  7. Pugu Hills Nature Reserve
  8. Kigamboni City Park
  9. Dar es Salaam Yacht Club
  10. Mikumi National Park (a few hours drive from the city)

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