Dar es Salaam history

The history of Dar es Salaam begins with the small fishing village of Mzizima, which means "healthy town" in Swahili. Its strategic location on the Indian Ocean coast and a convenient natural harbour have long attracted traders and seafarers. The modern history of the city began in the mid-19th century when it fell within the sphere of interest of the Sultan of Zanzibar.

Foundation and Early Development

A key role in the founding of the city was played by the first Sultan of Zanzibar, Majid bin Said. In 1865 or 1866, he began the construction of a new city near the village of Mzizima, which he gave the poetic name Dar es Salaam, meaning "Haven of Peace" or "Abode of Peace" in Arabic. The Sultan planned to move his capital here, but his death in 1870 temporarily halted the project's development. A new phase of growth began in 1887 when the German East Africa Company established a trading post here, and in 1891, Dar es Salaam became the administrative centre of the German East Africa colony.

Key Factors of Formation

Several factors contributed to the rapid growth of Dar es Salaam:

• Geographical Location: A deep-water port in a natural harbour made the city the ideal gateway for trade between the African interior and the rest of the world.
• Political Significance: Its status as a capital—first of the German colony and, after World War I, of the British territory of Tanganyika—ensured an influx of investment in infrastructure and administrative development.
• Trade and Logistics: The construction of the Central Railway Line, begun in 1907, definitively secured the city's status as the region's main economic and transport hub.

Cultural and Economic Features

From the very beginning, Dar es Salaam was formed as a multinational city. Here, Arab and Persian influences, brought by traders and the Sultanate, blended with the culture of local peoples, particularly the Zaramo. Later, a European colonial lifestyle was added to this palette. The city's economy was firmly linked to the port, through which agricultural goods from the depths of the continent were exported. The German administration built key facilities, including St. Joseph's Cathedral and the hospital building, which remain important architectural monuments of the city today.

Key Milestones in the History of Dar es Salaam

From a fishing village to the country's largest metropolis, the history of Dar es Salaam is rich in events that have shaped its modern appearance. Here is a brief timeline of key moments in the city's development.

• 1862 — Sultan of Zanzibar Majid bin Said founds the city near the fishing village of Mzizima and names it Dar es Salaam, meaning "Haven of Peace".
• 1887 — The German East Africa Company establishes its outpost in the city, beginning a period of German influence.
• 1891 — Dar es Salaam becomes the administrative centre of the German East Africa colony, replacing Bagamoyo in this status.
• 1905-1907 — Construction begins on the Central Railway Line, connecting the port with inland regions and strengthening the city's economic importance.
• 1916 — During World War I, the city is occupied by British troops.
• 1919 — Dar es Salaam becomes the capital of the British mandate territory of Tanganyika.
• 1948 — The city's population reaches nearly 70,000, indicating its rapid growth.
• 1961 — Tanganyika gains independence, and Dar es Salaam becomes the capital of the new sovereign state.
• 1964 — Following the union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar, the city becomes the capital of the United Republic of Tanzania.
• 1973 — A decision is made to move the capital of Tanzania to Dodoma, although this process extended over decades.
• 1996 — The National Assembly (Parliament) of Tanzania officially moves from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma.

Despite the transfer of capital functions, Dar es Salaam remains the economic heart, the largest city, and the main port of Tanzania today.

Major Stages of Development in Dar es Salaam

The development of Dar es Salaam is a story of transformation from a small village into one of Africa's fastest-growing metropolises. Key transformations were linked to its capital status, strategic port, and economic reforms.

1. Formation of the Colonial Centre (1891–1916)

After Dar es Salaam became the capital of German East Africa, its systematic urban development began. The Germans laid the foundation for the modern layout of the centre, built administrative buildings, hospitals, and places of worship, such as St. Joseph's Cathedral. This period defined the architectural look of the historic part of the city.

2. Construction of the Central Railway (from 1907)

One of the most important economic projects was the construction of the railway line connecting the port of Dar es Salaam with the deep regions of the continent, up to Lake Tanganyika. This turned the city into the main transport and trade hub of the region, through which agricultural products and raw materials were exported.

3. Capital of Independent Tanzania (1961–1973)

With the attainment of independence, Dar es Salaam became not only the political but also the ideological capital of the new state. The city became a centre for national liberation movements and a symbol of the young nation. During this period, education and culture developed actively, although economic growth was constrained by the policy of socialism (Ujamaa).

4. Capital Relocation and Maintaining Economic Leadership (from 1973)

In 1973, a decision was made to move the capital to Dodoma to develop the central regions of the country. Despite the official relocation of parliament in 1996, Dar es Salaam de facto retained the status of an economic and financial centre. The headquarters of major companies, banks, and foreign missions remained here.

5. Economic Liberalisation and Construction Boom (from the late 1980s)

The transition to a market economy triggered a surge in private investment. A construction boom began in the city: modern high-rise buildings, business centres, and hotels appeared. Dar es Salaam turned into one of the fastest-growing cities in the world.

6. Development of Modern Infrastructure (21st Century)

To address issues related to rapid population growth and traffic, large-scale infrastructure projects were launched in the city. Key among them were the Dar es Salaam Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system and the construction of the Nyerere Bridge, connecting the business district with the Kigamboni area.

7. Cultural Melting Pot

Dar es Salaam has established itself as the main cultural centre of Tanzania. The city is the birthplace of the unique Tingatinga painting style and a centre of Swahili culture. Sites such as the National Museum and the Village Museum (an open-air museum) attract tourists and preserve the country's rich heritage.

Architectural Mosaic and Urban Appearance

The architecture of Dar es Salaam is a unique reflection of its rich history, where colonial-era buildings, Arab mosques, Indian trading houses, and gleaming skyscrapers can coexist on the same street. The urban landscape was shaped by the influence of Swahili culture, German and British colonisation, as well as modern economic dynamics, turning the metropolis into a veritable open-air museum.

German Colonial Period (1891–1916): European Classics in the Tropics

This short but significant period left perhaps the most notable mark on the historic city centre, especially along the waterfront. German architects adapted European styles to the hot climate, creating buildings with thick walls, high ceilings, and deep verandas.

• Style: Eclecticism with elements of Neo-Gothic and Neoclassicism.
• Landmark Buildings:
  • Azania Front Lutheran Church: One of the city's symbols, built in a Bavarian style with Gothic elements. Its tiled roofs and white walls contrast brightly with the greenery of the waterfront.
  • St. Joseph's Cathedral: A majestic Catholic temple in the Gothic style, famous for its stained glass windows and massive spires.
  • Ocean Road Hospital: A hospital building with characteristic arches and domes, combining Arab motifs with German engineering thought.

British Period and Asian Influence (1916–1961)

During this time, the city began to expand beyond the historic centre. The British administration introduced elements of functionalism and landscape gardening, while the significant Indian diaspora shaped the appearance of the commercial quarters.

• Style: Colonial style, Art Deco, and elements of Indo-Saracenic architecture.
• Urban Planning Features: The Kisutu district and the city centre filled with two- and three-story "shophouses" with shops on the ground floor and living quarters above. In the Upanga area, Hindu temples and mansions in an Asian style appeared.
• State House: The former residence of the German governor, rebuilt by the British in 1922. The building combines European forms with Arab crenellated walls and towers, reflecting the local flavour.

Era of Independence and Modernism (1960–1990s)

After gaining independence, Tanzania set a course for modernisation. The architecture of this period became more utilitarian, symbolising progress and the socialist ideals of that time.

• Style: Modernism, Brutalism.
• Landmark Object: Kariakoo Market. A massive concrete structure designed by architect B.J. Ambasz. Its giant mushroom-shaped columns provide shade and ensure natural ventilation, serving as an excellent example of "tropical brutalism".

Modern Dar es Salaam: Postmodernism and High-Tech

Since the beginning of the 21st century, the city's skyline has been changing rapidly. Economic growth has led to a boom in high-rise construction, especially in the Posta business district.

• Style: Postmodernism, High-Tech, glass and concrete.
• The City's Look Today: Modern twin towers, such as the PSPF Commercial Towers, and the Port building (TPA Tower) tower over the old quarters. This contrast between the mirrored facades of office centres and historic buildings creates a dynamic and unique image of a modern African metropolis.

Notable Figures Associated with Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam, being the largest city and economic heart of Tanzania, has been a place where many prominent figures lived, created, and changed history. Their activities have had a significant impact not only on the city but also on the entire country and even the world.

• Majid bin Said (1834–1870) — The founder of the modern city. The first Sultan of Zanzibar, who in the 1860s decided to establish a new port and city on the site of the fishing village of Mzizima, naming it Dar es Salaam ("Haven of Peace"). Although he did not live to see the full realisation of his vision, it was he who laid the first stone in the foundation of the future metropolis.
• Julius Nyerere (1922–1999) — The first President of Tanzania and "Father of the Nation". Although he was not born in Dar es Salaam, his political career is inextricably linked with the city, which was the country's capital for most of his rule. It was here that key decisions defining the development path of independent Tanzania were made.
• Edward Saidi Tingatinga (1932–1972) — Artist and founder of the world-famous "Tingatinga" painting style. After moving to Dar es Salaam, he began creating his bright and naive paintings using available materials. His unique style originated and gained recognition in this very city, becoming one of Tanzania's most recognisable cultural symbols.
• Sir David Adjaye (born 1966) — World-renowned architect. He was born in Dar es Salaam into the family of a Ghanaian diplomat. Adjaye is the author of many iconic buildings around the world, including the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. His origins and connection to the city underscore the cosmopolitan character of Dar es Salaam.
• Hasheem Thabeet (born 1987) — Professional basketball player. Born in Dar es Salaam, he became the first Tanzanian selected in the NBA draft, where he was picked second overall in 2009. His career serves as a source of inspiration for many young athletes in the country.
• Marin Hinkle (born 1966) — American actress. She was born in Dar es Salaam to American parents working in the Peace Corps. She is best known for her roles in the TV series "Two and a Half Men" and "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel".
• Naseeb Abdul Juma (Diamond Platnumz, born 1989) — Musician, songwriter, and producer. Born in Dar es Salaam, he is one of the most influential and successful musicians in the Bongo Flava genre, popular throughout East Africa. He has turned Dar es Salaam into a hub of modern African music.