COEXISTENCE

Curatorial Statement

Coexistence is embedded in our lived experiences, shaped by our birthplace, generation, and cultural or religious identities. While each of us navigates our own individual realities, we are constantly engaging with others, sharing spaces and negotiating the complexities of living together in an interconnected world.

Tanzania’s vision of coexistence has been profoundly influenced by the socialist ideals of Julius Nyerere, particularly his concepts of "Ujamaa" (brotherhood) and the motto "Uhuru na Umoja" (freedom and unity). Since gaining independence in 1961, Nyerere’s leadership sought to build national unity and foster a society where peaceful coexistence was at its core. Although the outcomes of these efforts have been varied, they have undeniably shaped Tanzania’s identity as a nation committed to collective well-being and harmony.

On a wider scale, Africa’s vast cultural and linguistic diversity—home to over 1,000 languages and numerous ethnic groups—has given rise to both challenges and opportunities in navigating coexistence. The African philosophy of "Ubuntu," which asserts that “I am because we are,” emphasizes the profound interconnectedness of individuals within their communities, offering a powerful framework for understanding coexistence through shared identity and mutual respect.

Coexistence also extends to the relationship between humans and wildlife, particularly in Tanzania, where the country is home to some of the world’s most iconic ecosystems and animal species. However, as urbanization and agricultural expansion continue to encroach on protected areas, balancing development with conservation becomes increasingly complex. Through photography, the festival invites us to reflect on this delicate negotiation, exploring the ways humans and nature can coexist in harmony despite competing needs.

In the context of urbanism, the theme of coexistence is explored through the lens of migration and youthful experiences. Diasporic movements and the experiences of young people in rapidly changing urban environments add another layer to the complexities of coexistence. The influx of migrants—seeking new opportunities or escaping hardship—shapes the social fabric of cities like Dar es Salaam, where youthful energy and diverse cultural influences collide. The festival highlights how these generational and migratory shifts influence urban life, revealing the fluidity of identity and belonging as individuals navigate new landscapes and forge connections in unfamiliar territories.

Artist Natalia Msungu further explores this theme through her photography, which examines the evolving urban landscape of Dar es Salaam. Msungu captures the city’s division into three distinct zones: the thriving economic center, marked by modern infrastructure; the informal settlements where much of the population resides; and the peripheral areas, where high living standards and development meet social services and infrastructure. Through her lens, she highlights the socio-economic and environmental divides that shape urban coexistence, offering a powerful commentary on the complexities of life in a rapidly growing city, and the ongoing struggle to create harmony between diverse communities.

Dar Foto Festival 2025 presents a dynamic exploration of coexistence, weaving together personal, communal, and environmental narratives. The festival invites reflection on the many ways we share space, navigate difference, and live together in an ever-changing world.