Country Report: Tanzania

by Mimi Sia

Along the coast of the Indian Ocean, we come to Tanzania, a country in eastern Africa. The name is a combination of two states, Tanganyika and Zanzibar.

“Tanganyika” comes from the Swahili words, “Tanga” meaning “sail” and “nyika” meaning “wilderness.” Together the name means “Sail in the wilderness.”

“Zanzibar” is derived from “Zenji,” the name of the local people, meant to be “black” and the Arabian word “barr” meaning coast or shore.

On 29 October 1963, the country became the United Republic of Tanzania.

Like many other African countries, Tanzania has a rich history dating back to early civilization. It’s fascinating to read.