The 2025 Dar Foto Festival currently explores the complexities of “Coexistence” through the powerful medium of photography. Running from January 31 to March 1, 2025, the festival spans two vibrant cities, Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar, presenting the works of 15 distinguished photographers from across Africa, including Congo, Sudan, Kenya, and Tanzania.
The central theme of “Coexistence” addresses the multifaceted nature of shared spaces and diversity, particularly in the context of contemporary African society. Rooted in Tanzania’s history, the theme draws on the socialist ideals of “Ujamaa” (brotherhood) and “Uhuru na Umoja” (freedom and unity) championed by the late President Julius Nyerere, which aimed to foster national cohesion despite the country’s rich ethnic and cultural diversity. These ideals, along with the African philosophy of Ubuntu—”I am because we are”—remain integral to understanding coexistence in modern Tanzania and beyond.
In Dar es Salaam, urbanization and environmental challenges are prominent themes. The city’s rapid development and migration patterns reflect the tensions between conservation and progress. Natalia Msungu’s photography, for example, captures the stark contrasts within the city—its thriving business districts, sprawling informal settlements, and emerging suburban areas. Her work provides a compelling visual commentary on the socio-economic divides and the city’s ongoing transformation.
The festival’s program includes not only exhibitions but also interactive activities designed to engage the public. These include photo walks through urban spaces, offering attendees the opportunity to explore the festival’s central theme in the context of daily life, and portfolio reviews for emerging photographers seeking industry feedback.
Conversations with established photographers further enrich the dialogue on how photography can illuminate the realities of coexistence. As the Dar Foto Festival unfolds, it solidifies its role as a key cultural event in East Africa, showcasing the power of photography to foster understanding, spark dialogue, and challenge perceptions about living together in a diverse world.
