Prof Horton, Dr Christie (RAU) and Dr Ichumbaki (UDSM) will be joined by members of the Zanzibar Heritage Foundation led by Abdallah Khamis Ali, Kidu Hamad Ali from the Ministry of Tourism and Heritage, Zanzibar and three students from the University of Dar es Salaam: Neema Athuman, Steve Mfupe and Mashauri Lumbas.
From the University of Dar es Salaam:
Dr Elgidius Ichumbaki
Elgidius Ichumbaki is an Associate Professor of Heritage Studies at the University of Dar es Salaam (Tanzania), a Visiting Associate Professor at the University College Dublin (Ireland) and an Adjunct Professor at Korea University (South Korea). Also a National Geographic explorer, Ichumbaki’s research explores theories, methods, and practices to decolonise research undertakings and the writing of African pasts. For the past 15 years, Ichumbaki has conducted research, trained students, and established community enterprises at various heritage sites in Tanzania. He has authored over 50 publications, including peer-reviewed journal articles, book chapters, museum exhibitions, television programs, documentaries, and music videos. Currently, Ichumbaki is a President of the Pan African Archaeological Association (PAA), a not-for-profit professional organisation whose members include archaeologists, palaeontologists, museologists, and cultural heritage scholars and practitioners researching African pasts. In addition to being a co-editor of the Journal of Heritage & Society, Dr Ichumbaki serves on multiple editorial boards for peer-reviewed journals and other publication series.
Neema Athuman
My name is Neema Athuman, and I like to think of myself as a storyteller at heart. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Theatre Arts from the University of Dar es Salaam, which has deeply shaped my passion for creative expression and cultural heritage. Currently, I am working under the guidance of Prof. Elgidius Ichumbaki as a research assistant and serve as an exhibitor with the Urithi Wetu Research Group. I am immensely grateful to Prof. Ichumbaki, Prof. Mark Horton, and Dr. Annalisa Christie for offering me this incredible opportunity to be part of such a meaningful project. This experience is a chance to learn, connect, and contribute to something impactful. I am thrilled to collaborate with this brilliant team.
Steven Didas Mfupe
My name is Steven Didas Mfupe, I am a professional heritage manager with a Bachelor's degree in Heritage Management from the University of Dar es Salaam. Currently, I serve as a Research Assistant (RA) and an exhibitor at Urithiwetu Group, working under the guidance of Prof. Elgidius Ichumbaki. In 2024, I actively participated in various research and exhibition projects conducted by Urithiwetu Group in Tanzania's coastal regions, specifically in Bagamoyo and Kilwa. Regarding the Giving us Voice Project, I extend my sincere appreciation to Prof. Ichumbaki, Prof. Mark Horton, and Dr. Annalisa Christie for selecting me as a team member for this initiative. Through collaborative efforts with the team, we are dedicated to achieving the project's objectives as outlined.
Mashauri Lumbas Mbolea
My name is Mashauri Lumbas Mbolea, I am a professional in the fields of heritage and tourism. I earned my Bachelor's degree in History, Cultural Heritage Management, and Tourism from the University of Dar es Salaam. Currently, I serve as a Museum Officer in the Department of Museums and Antiquities in Zanzibar. In addition to my work in the museum, I have a keen interest in photography and videography, specifically focused on heritage and tourism. I use these skills to capture and share the beauty of our cultural landscapes. Furthermore, I am involved in graphics design and digital management within the Department, where I help create engaging materials to promote our initiatives and heritage. I would like to take a moment to express my genuine gratitude to Prof. Ichumbaki, Prof. Mark Horton, and Dr. Annalisa Christie for inviting me to join the team for the Giving Us Voice Project. I look forward to working closely with my fellow team members to successfully meet the goals set for this initiative.
From the Zanzibar Heritage Foundation:
Abdallah Khamis Ali
My name is Abdallah Khamis Ali. I was born in 1965, With 25 years of dedicated research in archaeology and anthropology, I have collaborated with renowned scholars like Prof. Mark Horton, Prof. Adria, Prof. Chami, Prof. Stephanie, and Prof. Paul Sinclair, contributing significantly to academic and fieldwork both locally and internationally. hold master's degrees in History and Museum Studies, which underpin my extensive expertise in heritage preservation and historical studies. My tenure as Head of Antiquities in Zanzibar for nearly 18 years has provided me with unparalleled experience in managing and conserving cultural heritage. Through participation in numerous researches and scientific conferences, both within and beyond the country, I have engaged with diverse scholarly perspectives, sharing knowledge and enriching my understanding of global heritage practices. This rich background reflects my enduring commitment to the study and preservation of cultural and historical legacies. This rich background reflects my enduring commitment to the study and preservation of cultural and historical legacies.
From the Ministry of Tourism and Heritage, Zanzibar:
Kidu Ali Hamad
My name is Kidu Ali Hamad, I was born in 1989, I am a Professional in Anthropology, Tourism, Culture and Hospitality Management with a Bachelor Degree of Culture, Anthropology and Tourism from Tumaini University of Iringa. I served as Anthropological and Tourism Officer at Ministry of Tourism and Heritage Zanzibar. I participated in various academic projects in Unguja Island. I dreamed of fulfilling this project through team working of the group.