Public defence, Architecture, MSc Ali Khamis

Title of the thesis: The role of planning in conserving urban cultural heritage in rapid urbanisation: A case study of Stone Town in Zanzibar City

Thesis defender: Ali Khamis
Opponent: Prof.  Mugwima Njuguna, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture & Technology, Kenya
Custos: Prof. Saija Hollmén, Aalto University School of Arts, Design and Architecture

A study titled “The Role of Planning in Conserving Urban Cultural Heritage in Rapid Urbanisation: A Case Study of Stone Town in Zanzibar City” has been completed.

The study examined how effective urban planning can support the protection and conservation of Stone Town’s built cultural heritage, particularly in the face of rapid urbanisation and the growing impacts of climate change.

The main purpose of the study was to develop and present a validated planning framework to guide heritage conservation efforts in Stone Town. It emphasises the need to better integrate urban planning policies, frameworks, and practices with conservation strategies in order to improve the long-term protection of this historic area.

The findings show that strong and well-structured planning frameworks are essential for safeguarding Stone Town’s historic buildings, cultural environment, and unique urban character. The study demonstrates that adopting such frameworks can help ensure that Stone Town remains safe, resilient, and sustainable for present and future generations.

This research is important not only for Stone Town and Zanzibar City, but also for other historic urban areas across Africa and around the world that are experiencing similar pressures from urban growth, development, and climate change. It contributes to the field of heritage conservation by highlighting Stone Town as both a treasured link to the past and a living heritage that supports today’s communities and should be protected for future generations.

The study concludes that effective planning plays a central role in conserving urban cultural heritage. It also highlights that historic places can continue to benefit communities when conservation is guided by clear, practical, and sustainable planning approaches.

Keywords: Built heritage conservation; hyper-urbanisation; climate change impacts; participatory urban planning process; Stone Town, Zanzibar City, planning frameworks

Thesis available for public display 7 days prior to the defence at Aalto University's public display page.