The first part of the building was erected by Ibn Ismail, a wealthy and flamboyant Omani slave trader and used as his home in Zanzibar.
Towards the end of his life he donated it to the Sultan of Zanzibar and it became a guest house for members of the Royal family. Majid, the sultan’s son was a frequent visitor to the house for his forbidden love tryst with the beautiful slave girl Ayasha.
Over the years, the building became part of the Royal family ‘Bait al Mal’ (community trust) and was eventually sold to a family who leased it to the newly formed English Club.
In 1888, the English Club (the oldest such club in East Africa) opened exclusively to English residents. Facilities included a bar, restaurant, library, billiard room and accommodation.
Golf, tennis, hockey and cricket matches were played at the clubs sports fields at Mnazi Mmoja. Membership regulations changed in later years allowing Europeans and Americans to apply.
The Africa House re-awakened from its chequered and interesting past, embracing all who walk through the door with warmth and old world charm. Laughter and happiness prevail!
Royal Deluxe (1 Room)
Reflecting colonial grace, the Royal Deluxe Room with its antique, king-size Zanzibar bed, lavishly furnished sitting area and exquisite furnishings is the perfect choice for the discerning traveller.
Queen Deluxe (6 Rooms) / Twin Deluxe Rooms (2 Rooms) Set a top the Africa House in refined comfort of classic colonial and Zanzibar decor, these Queen / Twin Deluxe guestrooms offer guests the magnificent roof top and bustling street views of Stone Town.
Elegantly furnished Queen / Twin Deluxe guestrooms where tropical beauty is invited through large, expansive windows overlooking the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean.
All with en-suite bathrooms and antique Zanzibar four poster beds with mosquito nets. Each room is equipped with an individually controlled air conditioning unit, Satellite television, telephones, hairdryer, mini fridge, laundry service
And complimentary tea and coffee making facilities.
WIFI in all public areas.
Towards the end of his life he donated it to the Sultan of Zanzibar and it became a guest house for members of the Royal family. Majid, the sultan’s son was a frequent visitor to the house for his forbidden love tryst with the beautiful slave girl Ayasha. 
