The Zanzibar archipelago is located off the east coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean. Located just south of the equator, the approximately 50 islands have an excellent climate for spice cultivation. The two largest islands are Unguja, which is often colloquially referred to as Zanzibar, and Pemba. While Unguja has continued to expand tourism in recent decades, Pemba is still much less developed. Spices are grown on both islands.Pemba is still much less developed. Spices are grown on both islands. Large plantations and mass production are not to be found. A special feature of the Zanzibar form of cultivation is that the spices are almost never grown in monoculture. Companion planting is not a buzzword here, but a principle that has been practised for many generations. Pepper climbs on clove trees, vanilla climbs mangoes, cinnamon and nutmeg trees grow together with fruit trees and flowers. The cultivation area ranges from the mangrove forests at the edge of the sea to the admittedly not too high hills of the island's interior - and each location contributes a new nuance.

Spices are an important part of the Zanzibar tradition. Many of the dishes prepared in everyday life or at festivals are intensely and variously seasoned. At the same time, it should not be forgotten that part of the Zanzibar population has to make do with too little money to be able to stock up extensively on spices. And while life can be very hard, especially in urban areas, in rural areas wild fruits often grow or the sea provides a livelihood. Most families cultivate a piece of land here – and often enough there are bananas, breadfruit trees, sweet potatoes, lettuce or vegetables as well as small corners where spices are grown. The knowledge of cultivation is available - a good basis.