Lights On, Lights Off

Forodhani Gardens Night Market, Zanzibar

When most people think of Zanzibar, they picture pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and the warm embrace of island life. And yes, the island is magical, but if you've never experienced the "lights on, lights off" lifestyle, you may not fully understand the resilience of the people living here. It’s different when power cuts become part of your daily rhythm. You adapt, you become more resourceful, and before you know it, it’s just another part of life.

I grew up in Dar es Salaam and vividly remember the evenings when the electricity would come back on after hours or even a full day without power. The whole neighborhood would erupt into cheers, clapping and celebrating the return of electricity like it was a miracle. The outages were unpredictable—sometimes lasting a few hours, other times stretching into an entire day—because the country would rotate power distribution, meaning different areas would have electricity at different times. If you had a generator, like we did, you could keep things running for a while, but it wasn’t an all-day solution. The privilege of having a generator wasn’t something everyone could afford. Despite this, life went on.

Looking back, I realize that while the lack of consistent infrastructure was frustrating, it didn’t diminish the quality of life we experienced. It taught us resilience, creativity, and a sense of community. Tanzania, like many countries, has its challenges, but those challenges are woven into the fabric of life in a way that brings people together.

As a tourist, you may not directly experience power cuts, but it’s important to be mindful that this issue is a daily reality for locals and businesses alike. For many in Zanzibar, the ongoing electricity shortage is an ever-present challenge. While some areas may be spared, power cuts affect everyone—from street vendors to large hotels.

If you do experience a power cut during your visit, I encourage you to embrace it as part of the experience. Like the locals who rejoice when the lights come back on, you can adopt a similar mindset. It’s moments like these that can open our eyes to how much we take for granted in other parts of the world—things like reliable electricity and the convenience of uninterrupted service.

Zanzibar, with all its beauty, is a place where the contrast between paradise and everyday challenges is ever-present. For those who live here, making the most out of each moment, despite the obstacles, is a testament to their resilience and spirit. As travelers, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the simple things in life and learn to be grateful for the comforts we often overlook.

So, next time the lights flicker or the power goes out, remember that sometimes the most powerful experiences are the ones that make us pause and reflect. Embrace the moment, and know that your experience is shared by those who call this island home.