Islam in Zanzibar to fight for the secession of Zanzibar from the Union of the United Republic of Tanzania. Islam in Zanzibar Islam is the most prominent religion on the island of Zanzibar. According to the CIA Factbook, more than 99% in the island are Muslim. The vast majority of Muslims in Zanzibar are Sunni of Shafi'i school of jurisprudence with minority Ibadi, Ismaili and Twelver Shia. Islam came to Zanzibar in the 8th century. There is also a presence of Ahmadi Muslims in Zanzibar. According to one source, "Islam in Zanzibar inspired anti-colonialism, political movements and nationalistic struggle for independence." Other Muslim
History of Zanzibar Africans died each year before ever reaching the island.) Tippu Tip was the most notorious slaver, under several sultans, and also a trader, plantation owner and governor. Zanzibar's spices attracted ships from as far away as the United States, which established a consulate in 1837. The United Kingdom's early interest in Zanzibar was motivated by both commerce and the determination to end the slave trade. In 1822, the British signed the first of a series of treaties with Sultan Said to curb this trade, but not until 1876 was the sale of slaves finally prohibited. Under strong British pressure, the