Pemba Island is known as “The Clove Island” because for centuries it has been one of the world’s leading producers of cloves.

Clove trees were first introduced to Pemba (and neighboring Zanzibar) by Arab traders in the early 19th century. The island’s fertile red soil and humid tropical climate turned out to be perfect for cultivating this highly prized spice. Very quickly, cloves became the backbone of Pemba’s economy — at one point producing over 70% of the world’s clove supply.

The nickname stuck, and even today cloves remain central to the island’s identity. Walking through Pemba, you can often smell the sweet, spicy aroma of cloves drying in the sun. Beyond their use in cooking, cloves have long been valued for their medicinal properties, their role in traditional ceremonies, and their historic significance in global trade.

So when you hear “The Clove Island,” it’s not just a name — it’s a reflection of Pemba’s heritage, culture, and enduring contribution to the world’s spice trade.