On February 2025, the Majestic Cinema in Zanzibar’s Stone Town welcomed a distinguished delegation led by UNESCO’s Director-General, alongside representatives from the Stone Town Conservation and Development Authority (STCDA). This high-profile site visit marked a defining moment for the Majestic, an art deco landmark that has stood as a cultural cornerstone since its opening in 1955. As part of Stone Town’s UNESCO World Heritage site, the cinema’s restoration is not just a local endeavor but a global commitment to preserving Zanzibar’s rich history and vibrant future.
The delegation toured the cinema, where restoration efforts are breathing new life into its iconic facade and interiors, guided by Hifadhi Zanzibar. The UNESCO Director-General praised the project’s vision to transform the Majestic into a cultural hub that celebrates Zanzibar’s storytelling heritage while fostering community empowerment. The STCDA, dedicated to conserving Stone Town’s unique architecture, highlighted the cinema’s role as a symbol of inclusive cultural spaces, once a gathering place for all Zanzibaris. The visit also showcased recent community initiatives, such as a pop-up information center and film screenings by local filmmakers, which are already revitalizing the space. As the Majestic rises from its storied past, this visit signals global support for a project that promises to blend heritage with innovation, ensuring the cinema remains a beacon of creativity for generations to come.