Baraza, The Space of Public Life in Stone Town of Zanzibar

Despite the rise of digital communication and new public spaces, the baraza—a traditional platform for social interaction—remains a vital element of daily life in Stone Town, Zanzibar. Serving as an information hub, entertainment space, social unit, political platform, and religious base, the baraza retains its cultural significance even amid modernization. This study reveals that, contrary to expectations, the baraza’s role has not diminished with lifestyle changes or media evolution. Primary data from semi-structured interviews with residents, supplemented by secondary sources, underscores its enduring importance in shaping community dynamics and public life.

Rezaei, N. (2020). Baraza, the space of public life in Stone Town of Zanzibar. World Sociopolitical Studies, Online First. https://doi.org/10.22059/wsps.2020.291125.1123