 |
 Pemba
Island lies approximately 80 km northeast of Zanzibar Island (Unguja) and is
more close to the coastline of the mainland of Tanzania , facing directly east
of the of the port of Tanga.
Pemba being the second largest island of the Spice Archipelago, known its
excellent natural vegitations,it is sometimes referred to "the Green Island"
by the Arabic mariners in reverence of the profusion of lush fertility they
encountered after their journey south along the arid coastline. Delighted by
their welcome, these same mariners founded a city at Ras Mkumbuu, possibly the
oldest permanent settlement south of Lamu.
Pemba rises from the Indian Ocean on its own granite pedestal, a continental
landmass in itself, topped with verdant hillscapes that tumble through clove
plantations to the signatory, pristine white beaches.
The reefs and channels make for East Africa’s finest diving and highly rated
game fishing, whilst the Pembans themselves embody the coastal Swahili in their
dignity of manner and refinement of welcome.
Pemba Towns
CHAKE CHAKE
This is the largest town on Pemba situated about half-way down the the western
side of the island. Chake Chake is also the administrative capital of the island
and the centre through the which all th buses and dala-dala's travel. Although
it was occupied for many centuries, little architectural evidence remains other
than the ruins of an 18th century fort and some 12th century ruins near Ras
Mkumbuu. The town is set on a ridge overlooking Chake Chake Bay and there is a
small dhow port and fish market along the waters edge.
MKOANI
Situated on the southwestern edge of the island, Mkoani is the smallest of
Pemba's main 3 towns. However, as all passenger boat traffic from Unguja
(Zanzibar Island) and the mainland arrive here, the port is also the busiest and
most important on the island.
WETE
Wete is the second largest town on Pemba, situated on the northwestern part of
the island. Wete is a pleasant town, quieter than Chake Chake, and is a good
base for exploring the northern part of the
island. It has the island's
second most important port through which most of the clove production is
exported.
Top |
