Treaty Establishing Caprivi Strip Between UK and Germany

The Treaty establishing the Caprivi Strip was a pivotal agreement between the United Kingdom and Germany, formalized through the Heligoland-Zanzibar Treaty. This treaty facilitated Germany's access to the Zambezi River, which was crucial for connecting its colonies in East Africa. The Caprivi Strip, a narrow piece of land in what is now Namibia, was transferred to German South West Africa as part of this arrangement. In return, the UK gained control over the island of Heligoland in the North Sea and the island of Zanzibar in East Africa. This exchange was significant in shaping colonial boundaries and enhancing Germany's strategic interests in southern Africa, allowing for better trade routes and resource access. The Caprivi Strip's geographical positioning enabled Germany to establish a more direct link to its East African territories, which included present-day Tanzania, thus impacting colonial administration and economic activities in the region.