Union representation
We represent educators’ interests nationally and internationally across all sectors, giving teachers effective, organised advocacy where decisions are made.
Chama cha Walimu ZanzibarEmpowering teachers,
Empowering teachers,
ensuring quality education.
The Zanzibar Teachers Union unites over 6,130 educators to defend teachers' rights, strengthen their welfare, and raise the standard of education across Unguja and Pemba.
6,130+
Members united
6
Education sub-sectors
Unguja & Pemba
Across the isles
Who we are
A united voice for every educator in Zanzibar
ZATU brings together teachers actively working across every level of Zanzibar's education system. Our current membership stands at about 6,130 — 4,060 in the Unguja zone and 2,070 in the Pemba zone.
From the classroom to the college hall, we represent educators' interests nationally and internationally, promote a dignified status for the profession, and build solidarity among teachers in both the public and private sectors.
Sub-sectors we serve
- Pre-primary
- Primary
- Secondary
- Teachers Colleges & Universities
- National Teachers Colleges
- Business, Technical & Vocational (TVET)
Access the ZATU Constitution, membership forms and publications.
By the numbers
Membership at a glance
6,130
Total members
Educators represented union-wide
4,060
Unguja zone
Members across Unguja island
2,070
Pemba zone
Members across Pemba island
6
Sub-sectors
From pre-primary to TVET
What we do
Standing behind teachers, every step of the way
Our work is anchored in three commitments that shape how we serve members and strengthen the teaching profession across the isles.
Quality education
We promote high educational standards and a dignified professional status for all teachers, so learners across Zanzibar are taught by valued, well-supported educators.
Unity among educators
We build solidarity among teachers in both public and private sectors, defending their rights, welfare, and benefits through a single collective voice.
Latest news
View all updatesUpdates from the union
Procurement10 Dec 2025
Request for Proposals (RFP) for conducting ZATU evaluation
ZATU invites qualified consultants to submit proposals for an independent evaluation of the union’s programmes and impact across the isles.
Read moreEvent05 Oct 2024
ZATU marks World Teachers’ Day in Kizimkazi, Kusini Unguja
Members and leaders gathered to celebrate educators and reaffirm the call to fund public education.
Capacity21 Oct 2024
Regional training strengthens teacher advocacy skills
Teachers across zones completed sessions on rights, welfare, and collective representation.
Activities & gallery
Community, solidarity & celebration
Snapshots from ZATU events across Zanzibar — from World Teachers' Day to regional training and advocacy campaigns.
World Teachers’ Day, Kizimkazi
Members’ assembly
Regional training
Regional event
Address to membersAdvocacy
Championing teachers' rights and quality education for all
ZATU carries the collective voice of Zanzibar's educators into every forum where the future of the profession is decided.
Union initiatives
Our initiatives focus on uniting teachers to advocate for their rights and improve educational standards across Zanzibar, ensuring their voices are heard both nationally and internationally.
Community engagement
ZATU engages with local communities to foster support for teachers, enhancing collaboration and understanding of educational needs while promoting the importance of quality education for future generations.
Member voices
Hear it from our teachers
“ZATU has empowered us to advocate for our rights effectively and confidently.”
“Joining ZATU has significantly improved our working conditions and strengthened our collective voice as educators in Zanzibar.”
Join ZATU
Add your voice. Join ZATU today.
Membership is open to teachers across pre-primary, primary, secondary, colleges, universities, and TVET institutions in Unguja and Pemba.
- Collective representation on pay, welfare & working conditions
- Professional development and training opportunities
- A recognised voice with government and education bodies
- Solidarity with over 6,130 educators across the isles