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The Zanzibar Land Animal Park (ZALA)

The Zanzibar Land Animal Park is a unique and successful example of sustainable development. It was the conception and dream of its originator and director, Mr. Mohammed Ayoub Haji. It has earned the respect of the village of Mungoni where it is located. Committees of citizens of Mungoni serve in advisory capacities, helping the ZALA Park director in decision making and planning.

A visitor to ZALA today will find...

The Children's Center for Environmental Education

School children, their teachers, and candidates from teacher training colleges of Zanzibar make frequent field trips to ZALA to view the animal collection and participate in educational sessions and workshops with the park director and staff.

The Reptile Collection

The goal of ZALA Park Zoo is to have living examples of all the reptiles of Zanzibar. There are now about twenty five species of snake and lizard kept in enclosures putting the animals in their natural habitat. The snake collection include pythons, a Mozambique spitting cobra, boomslangs, and a green mamba as well as samller species. Chameleons and monitor lizards are on view as well.

The Antelope Breeding Program and Small Mammal Collection

In the zoological collection there are hyrax and some examples of the small antelope native to Zanzibar.

In the forest area just behind the main animal collection area, ZALA Park has established an antelope breeding program. A fenced breeding habitat of dimensions 100 meters by 50 meters encloses several adult antelope pairs. As antelope are born and reach the age where they can lead a self-sustaining life, they are released into the general environment. Seven young antelopes have been released thus far.

Humans are the main threat to the survival of this miniature indigenous species as they have become increasingly popular as a meat source. This breeding program in a modest attempt to help prevent the their extinction.

Research Opportunities in Wildlife, Conservation, and Environmentla Trends in Zanzibar

Research proposals are welcome and the ZALA Park management frequently selects short-term projects for implementation. Services provided by ZALA Park are:

• Assistance in obtaining a research permit.
• Low-cost rental of the “Researchers’ Apartment” on site and of a bicycle.
• Advice and assistance with the research project.

The New Nursery School in Mungoni

The director of ZALA Park, in cooperation with the village of Mungoni, has established a nursery school. Classes are already held while the building is being finished.

Aquaculture

In cooperation with the Institute for Marine Science of the University of Dar es Salaam, a pilot fish breeding and project is under construction. Once completed, the project will test the practicality of food production by fish breeding in special locations along the Zanizbar coast.

Opportunities to Participate and to Assist ZALA

For inquiries about the park, its programs, and how you could support its efforts, contact the ICSEE or the park director, Mr. Mohammed Ayoub Omar at mohdayoub2@hotmail.com.