About JAVED JAFFERJI
Zanzibar photographer Javed Jafferji has spent his life capturing his deep affection for the island through photography, filmmaking, and storytelling. His work reflects a lifelong commitment to preserving Zanzibar’s culture, people, and natural beauty.
Photography, Storytelling, and Cultural Preservation
Javed’s photography and filmmaking education, combined with his diverse cultural background from Tanzania, Pakistan, and the UK, refined his creative skills. After graduating from Paddington College and Salisbury College of Art & Design, he began his career as a paparazzi photographer in London, capturing the lives of the royal family and celebrities.
First 10 Rooms
Author of more than 100 books, magazines, and feature articles showcasing the culture, heritage, tourism, and natural beauty of Zanzibar and Tanzania for global audiences.
28+ Years of Documentation
Nearly three decades dedicated to recording Tanzania’s national parks, wildlife reserves, landscapes, and communities through photography, film, and visual storytelling.
Tourism Leadership
Served two terms as Commissioner of Tourism for Zanzibar, leading strategic initiatives to promote sustainable tourism and strengthen the island’s international reputation.
Cultural Contributions
Founding member, board participant, and long-term supporter of major cultural, film, and music institutions committed to preserving Zanzibar’s artistic and creative heritage.
Entrepreneurship
Founder and director of multiple tourism, hospitality, media, and creative enterprises, contributing to economic growth and community development in Zanzibar.
International Recognition
Widely respected for his contribution to photography, tourism, and cultural preservation, with work exhibited, published, and recognised across international platforms.
Leadership in Tourism and Culture
Javed launched the Zanzibar Tourism Show and Awards to celebrate the island’s unique features. He served as a committed board member of the Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF) and the Dhow Countries Music Academy (DCMA).
He is also a founding board member and treasurer of the Hotel Association Zanzibar (HAZ), demonstrating his dedication to local business growth and community development.
Javed played a key role in promoting Zanzibar as a global tourism destination through his work with the Ministry of Tourism and Heritage, the Revolutionary Government’s branding committee, the Tanzania Tourist Board, and national branding initiatives.
He also founded Swahili Coast Magazine, Zanzibar’s oldest and largest tourism magazine.
Entrepreneurship and Hospitality
Javed founded PrintPlus, a printing press, and Gallery Tours, a tour company. He is the director of two luxury boutique hotels: Jafferji House and Spa in Stone Town and Jafferji Beach Retreat in Matemwe.
He co-founded the first Freddie Mercury Museum in Zanzibar, honouring the legendary musician’s legacy. Most recently, he created Zuri Rituals, a botanical skincare and spa brand manufactured in Zanzibar, supporting sustainable agriculture and strengthening the local economy.
