Who we are

About the Zanzibar Teachers Union

ZATU is the recognised trade union representing teachers from pre-primary to secondary and tertiary education across Unguja and Pemba.

ZATU leadership and members at the World Teachers Day gathering in Zanzibar
ZATU leadership, World Teachers' Day 2024
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)
Read more about us
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.

Union representation

We represent educators’ interests nationally and internationally across all sectors, giving teachers effective, organised advocacy where decisions are made.

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.

Advocacy

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.

ZATU members on an advocacy tour across Zanzibar

Ready to add your voice?

Join over 6,130 educators standing together for teachers' rights and quality education.

Become a member