A Vision for the Future
Sandbank Villas starts a new chapter in Zanzibar's story, led by a team of passionate experts across the entire development spectrum, from designing and building, to managing and marketing.
Rise with the destination: incredible design, five-star service, and leading industry experts.
Vision-led.
Value-aligned.
The Sandbank Villas team is united by a shared vision: to create Zanzibar’s most soulful luxury residential resort. With complementary expertise and a long-term lens, we're building something designed to last – for owners, guests, and the island itself.
Johari Developers
The Dar es Salaam skyline is shaped by Johari Developers, who've built more than 100,000 sqm of the city's residential and commercial space. The family-run business is also behind the sold-out Johari Beach Residences in Kizimkazi, set to become one of Zanzibar's leading boutique resorts.
Proven Partners
Proven Partners is a destination development specialist with luxury real estate experience across five continents. They lead the concept, strategy, and execution of Sandbank Villas, helping bring it to market with precision, creativity, and reach.
Hard Launch Hospitality
Hard Launch has managed some of Zanzibar’s top-performing luxury properties, with nightly rates surpassing US$1,000. Their hospitality-first model powers the Sandbank Villas rental program, ensuring every stay exceeds five-star standards.
Local Design with a Global Lens
Rob Steul, Lead Architect
Rob’s portfolio spans five-star hotels and coastal residences around the world, from the Four Seasons in London to Minthis in Cyprus. With his hands-on working style and passion for adapting local materials to international standards, Rob is an invaluable part of the leadership team and helped shape the design vision for Sandbank Villas.
Leonardo Biagioni, Interior Designer
From bespoke furniture in South Africa to high-end interiors in London, Leonardo brings a tactile, soulful approach to interiors. His work at Sandbank Villas celebrates texture, materiality, and craft, with each residence telling a story shaped by the island’s natural elements.
Building With Purpose
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IMRAN GOHAR, MANAGING DIRECTOR
Raised around building sites and blueprints, Imran has construction in his blood and an engineering degree from the University of Dar es Salaam. After leading the family firm AHC, he founded Johari Developers to bring new ambition and care to Tanzania’s luxury real estate.
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MARTHA NYANDA, ARCHITECT
Martha Nyanda is known for her intuitive design sense and commitment to quality. A registered AQRB architect and AAT member, she’s led major projects across Tanzania, blending innovation with a deep understanding of client needs.
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RACHEL VERHEUL, SALES MANAGER
Rachel leads sales at Sandbank Villas with eight years of experience in luxury real estate and multiple industry awards. Known for her strong client relationships and consistent results, she guides buyers with care, clarity, and confidence.
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LEAH PETER, PROJECT COORDINATOR
Leah brings a rare blend of organization, marketing insight, and hospitality know-how. With a background in business and more than six years in the industry, she keeps operations running smoothly by pairing precision with a warm, personal approach.
Interview with the Developer
Sister Development:
Johari Beach Residences
Johari Beach Residences is set to redefine boutique luxury on Zanzibar’s quieter southern shore. The project is a testament to Johari Developers' commitment to quality and international standing, with all 23 units sold ahead of delivery and investors hailing from 14 different countries.
We Deliver Differently
From first enquiry to final handshake, we keep things personal, honest, and clear. Our approach is rooted in integrity, built to foster lasting relationships, and turn clients into our greatest ambassadors.