Who We Are
The Zanzibar National Association of the Blind (ZANAB) is a non-governmental organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with blindness in Zanzibar. It was originally registered on 25th January 1993 under the Societies Act No. 6 of 1995 with Registration Number C.5. Its registration was later updated on 25th January 2018 by the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar through the Business Entities Registration Act (BPRA) No. 12 of 2012, under Registration Number Z 0000010910.
ZANAB has registered more than 500 members, including individuals who are blind, partially sighted, and persons with albinism—women, men, and children alike. The organization was established to improve the welfare of people with blindness, with a strong focus on addressing their marginalization across social, economic, political, and intellectual spheres. Its work is guided by the principle: “Nothing about us without us.”
The overall mandate of ZANAB is to promote full participation, equality, and empowerment of people with blindness in all aspects of society.
Our Mission
To strengthen and empower persons with visual impairment so that they can understand their needs, rights, and responsibilities, and access various opportunities through awareness-raising, capacity building, training, and advocacy.
Our Vision
To see persons with visual impairment living with empowerment, dignity, good health, and equal opportunities within society.