Author: Mayra Rodriguez

Swahili Coast

Alex Reyna
Jazzmin Readeaux
Kevin Quezadda
Salvador Munoz

Hakuna Matata

Geography

The geography of this magnificent place is 1800 miles of countries such as Kenya and the Tanzanian coastline. Beautiful stretches of sand and surf draw tourist to this historical area. On the East African coast and lying perfectly on the edge of the Indian Ocean, the Swahili Coast is easily the best place for some fun in the sun. Settlements such as Barawa, Lamu, Malimdi, Mombasa tanga pangani, Bagamoyo, Dar es salaam, Zanzibar, Pemaba and many more, demonstrate the history of this great area.

Expansion of Islam
The expansion of Islam helped to bring the cities of the Swahili Coast into the Muslim Eurasian trade network. Most significant events that happened molded the system which made the Swahili Coast what it is famous for today: trade. In 1370, Kilwa had a temporary power decline. In the 15th century was the revival in Kilwa under Sultan Muhammed Ibn Sulmain. Authority was given to the office of Amir, commander and chief at the time. Eventually, large fleets of Chinese were sent to Africa and created a demand for Eastern spices which led to their famous trades.
Aspects of Swhahili
Another aspect of their intriguing culture is their use of arts and crafts, which the Swahili find great significance in. When creating art Swahili people express themselves through creativity as well as function. Multicultural influences can be seen in Swahili art, furniture, and architecture. They often do not use designs with images of living beings because of their tradition Muslim beliefs. Instead, Swahili designs are mostly geometric. Important clothes such as the Kanga are heavily associated with their culture. A kanga is used to hold babies. Traditional and unique clothes such as those show the deep roots of the artistic Swahili Coast.