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Abdul Sheriff

Abdul Sheriff (1939, Zanzibar,Tanzania) is a former professor of history at the University of Dar es Salaam, and has played a crucial role in preserving Zanzibar’s cultural heritage. Sheriff has directed the restoration of a sultan’s ceremonial palace, which involved using local expertise and materials, organising the training of local staff and setting up large-scale collections.This House of Wonders was recently opened as the Museum of History and Culture of Zanzibar and the Swahili Coast. Sheriff has published a number of books on East African history. He is a consummate professional with a profound knowledge, curiosity and dedication to academic standards, and an unshakeable belief in the value of historical awareness.Abdul Sheriff is living proof of the importance of self-reliance and the significance of cultural heritage for identity and self-esteem.This is the first time that a Prince Claus Fund Award has been granted to a resident of Zanzibar.
http://www.zanzibarheritage.go.tz