Zanzibar — TRADITIONAL dhow races will be among the main attractions at this year's Kizimkazi Festival in southern Unguja, with at least 20 boats registered for the competition.

The festival will take place on Wednesday at the Mchangamle coastal area in Kizimkazi. The event is expected to attract residents and visitors from across Zanzibar and other parts of Tanzania.

Hamid Abdulhamid Khamis, secretary of the festival organising committee, said the races were intended to preserve traditional sporting activities and Zanzibar's maritime heritage.

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"The dhow races are not only a form of entertainment but also part of our cultural heritage. Through this festival, we are reviving and preserving traditional sports that are at risk of disappearing," Khamis said.

The competition will bring together teams from Kizimkazi Dimbani and Kizimkazi Mikunguni.

Khamis noted that the event involves local communities as part of an effort to encourage young people to take part in traditional activities and maintain interest in Zanzibar's seafaring culture.

The festival programme will begin with a half-marathon in the early morning, sponsored by the Mwanamke Initiatives Foundation.

The President of Zanzibar is expected to take part in the run and later officially open the festival. Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba is also expected to attend.

The organising committee says the festival will combine traditional sport and cultural activities with tourism.

According to Khamis the event will provide opportunities for local businesses and promote Kizimkazi as a destination for visitors. Khamis called on residents and from abroad to attend the festival.

"We invite everyone to come and be part of this unique celebration. It is an opportunity to experience our traditions, support local talent and enjoy the vibrant culture of Kizimkazi," he said.