Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam
source
Name	Dar es Salaam
Settlement type	City
Coordinates	6, 48, S, 39...
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	Tanzania
Established title	Founded
Established date	1862
Founder	Sultan Majid bin Said of Zanzibar
Government type	City Council
Leader title	Lord Mayor
Leader name	Isaya Mwita Charles
Area total km2	1393
Population total	6,400,000
Population as of	2020 estimate
Population density km2	auto
Timezone	East Africa Time
Utc offset	+3
Postal code type	Postal code
Postal code	11xxx
Area code	022
Website	https://www.dsm.go.tz/

Dar es Salaam. It is the largest city and former capital of Tanzania, serving as the nation's primary commercial and financial hub. Founded in the 19th century by Sultan Majid bin Said of Zanzibar, the city's name translates from Arabic as "Abode of Peace." While the official capital moved to Dodoma in 1974, Dar es Salaam remains the seat of most government offices and a vital port on the Indian Ocean.

History

The area was originally a small fishing village before being transformed by Sultan Majid bin Said of Zanzibar in 1862, who envisioned it as a new port and capital. After his death, development stagnated until the German East Africa colony established its administrative center there in 1891. Under German rule, infrastructure like the Central Line railway began. Following World War I, the city became the administrative seat of the British Tanganyika Territory, a status it retained after independence under Julius Nyerere. It was the capital of Tanganyika and later Tanzania until the government shifted to Dodoma.

Geography and climate

The city is situated on a natural harbor on the eastern coast of Tanzania, along the Indian Ocean. It features a mix of landscapes including the harbour, coastal plains, and several creeks and inlets such as Msasani Bay. The climate is classified as tropical, with distinct wet and dry seasons influenced by the Kaskazini and Kusi monsoons. The hot and humid season runs from October to March, while a cooler, drier period occurs from June to September.

Demographics

Dar es Salaam is one of the fastest-growing cities in Africa, with a population exceeding six million. It is a highly cosmopolitan center, home to a diverse array of ethnic groups including the Zaramo, Ndengereko, and Kwere peoples, alongside significant populations of Asian descent, particularly from India and Pakistan. The city is also a major destination for migrants from across Tanzania and neighboring countries like Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Swahili and English are the primary languages.

Economy

The city is the economic engine of Tanzania, hosting the Dar es Salaam Stock Exchange and the headquarters of major corporations like Tanzania Ports Authority and CRDB Bank. The Port of Dar es Salaam is a critical gateway for landlocked nations such as Zambia, Malawi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Key industries include manufacturing, processing agricultural exports, and a rapidly growing service sector. Major industrial areas are located in Ubungo and Kurasini.

Culture and society

Dar es Salaam is a vibrant cultural melting pot, reflected in its cuisine, music, and arts. The National Museum of Tanzania and the Village Museum showcase the country's history and diverse ethnic traditions. The city is a hub for Bongo Flava music and hosts events like the Dar es Salaam International Film Festival. Religious institutions, including the St. Joseph's Cathedral and numerous mosques, highlight its multi-faith character. Educational centers include the University of Dar es Salaam.

Government and infrastructure

The city is administered by the Dar es Salaam City Council, with the Tanzanian National Assembly maintaining a significant presence despite the capital's move. Critical infrastructure includes Julius Nyerere International Airport, a major aviation hub, and the TAZARA Railway linking to Zambia. The city faces challenges with rapid urbanization, addressed in part by the Dar Rapid Transit bus system. Key health institutions are the Muhimbili National Hospital and the Aga Khan Hospital. Category:Cities in Tanzania Category:Port cities in Africa Category:Populated places established in 1862