Restoring of the Sultan Palace Ujumbe

The 18th-century Ujumbe Palace, located in the medina of Mutsamudu on the island of Anjouan, is a key example of Swahili coastal architecture and a testament to the history of the Comorian Sultanates. Its carved wooden ceilings, polychrome beams with Quranic inscriptions, and rich stucco decoration reflect centuries of cultural exchange across the Indian Ocean. Today, the palace is in a fragile state due to structural deterioration, partial collapses, and exposure to high humidity and extreme weather. This project will restore the palace using traditional Swahili construction techniques, combined with climate-resilient approaches. It will focus on stabilizing the structure and conserving its most significant features, including damaged ceilings and decorative elements. The work will involve local craftspeople, supported by specialists from Zanzibar, and include on-the-job training to strengthen skills and ensure the transmission of traditional knowledge within the community.