Jozani

Jozani refers to the Jozani Forest, the forest component of the Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park on Unguja Island, the main island of Zanzibar, Tanzania. The protected area preserves the last remaining natural forest on Unguja and parts of the adjoining Chwaka Bay mangrove ecosystem. The park covers roughly 50 square kilometers (about 19 square miles) and includes inland moist forest as well as coastal and wetland habitats.

Biodiversity in Jozani is notable for the Zanzibar red colobus, an endemic and endangered primate that serves as a flagship species for Zanzibar’s conservation efforts. In addition to the colobus, the forest supports a variety of other primates, numerous bird species, reptiles, and a diverse plant community, including mangroves along the bay. The area is recognized for its relatively high concentration of wildlife relative to the island’s remaining habitats and is a focus of ecological research and conservation programs.

Conservation and management efforts are coordinated to protect biodiversity while supporting sustainable tourism and local communities. Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park is administered by the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) with involvement from local stakeholders, researchers, and conservation organizations. Protecting habitat quality, mitigating human-wildlife conflict, and promoting ecotourism are central objectives.

Tourism and interpretation are key aspects of Jozani. The park offers guided forest walks and boardwalks that allow visitors to observe wildlife with minimal disturbance. Visitors are asked to follow guidelines, stay on designated paths, and refrain from feeding animals. The site is a popular ecotourism destination that contributes to education and local livelihoods.