The Majestic Culture Hub is a new space for Zanzibar’s creative sector born out of the collaboration between island’s key cultural actors and their desire to save and bring back to life the last, purpose built cinema in Stone Town.
The Majestic Cinema is an art deco gem that opened its doors to the public in 1954. Over the years it has provided the community with entertainment and spaces for social gatherings. But the steady decline in visitor numbers since the late 1980s has also led to a gradual degradation of the building which is currently at risk of collapsing.
Community Engagement
At Majestic Culture Hub, community engagement is at the heart of our mission to celebrate Zanzibar’s rich culture and foster a vibrant hub for art and creativity. We actively involve the Stone Town community in the revitalization of the iconic Majestic Cinema, creating spaces that inspire cultural dialogue and artistic expression. From hosting film screenings and art exhibitions to opening a new reading space for kids, our initiatives empower local artists, families, and youth to connect, collaborate, and share their stories.
Our Team
Director Masoud leads Majestic Culture Hub with a vision to preserve Zanzibar’s heritage, driving the restoration of the Majestic Cinema as a cultural hub. Alongside him, Khwemah Sykes, Architect Project Manager and Office Manager of Hifadhi Zanzibar Ltd., oversees operations with her architectural expertise, ensuring the project reflects the community’s needs and aspirations
We collaborate with Paul Morel, Senior Project Manager at Stadsherstel Amsterdam, who brings expertise in heritage management, ensuring sustainable restoration of the Majestic Cinema. Berend van der Lans, a conservation architect with African Architecture Matters, contributes over 20 years of experience, upholding cultural and architectural excellence in this Zanzibar project.