Ngawala is a traditional fishing boat used in Tanzania and Zanzibar. The hull is made of a single piece of wood, most often Mango. Rigging and connectors are made of bamboo. The boat has special floats that stabilize it while swimming. It has a characteristic triangular sail.  

    Ngalawa was established over 1000 years ago, and its structure has remained the same until today. It is operated mostly by 2-3 sailors  

Why do they tan their boats?

    Ngawala, which is a valuable item in Zanzibar families, is to serve for many years. It costs several thousand USD, hence proper maintenance. Firing aims to eliminate all wood pests, both land and sea  

Usage

    A boat is a means of transporting people and goods over short distances and for catching fish. The hull of the boat can be about 6 meters long, while its width is only about 0.5 meters. The sails can be up to 45 m square  

Photo: Panasonic Lumix, Zanzibar, Bweju, April 2021

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