Same District came alive this week as the Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, Ambassador Dr. Pindi Chana, inaugurated the second annual Same Tourism Festival, urging district councils nationwide to establish similar tourism and conservation events to promote local attractions and boost Tanzania’s economy.
Representing the Prime Minister at the event, Dr. Chana emphasized the importance of protecting citizens from dangerous and destructive wildlife while preserving the nation’s natural resources.
“As we celebrate the second Same Tourism Festival, we must ensure that citizens are safeguarded from harmful wildlife while protecting the God-given resources that draw tourists to our country,” she said.
Dr. Chana noted that her Ministry, in collaboration with the President’s Office for Regional Administration and Local Government (TAMISEMI) and local communities, is committed to preserving natural resources for the benefit of both current and future generations.
Highlighting the Swahili adage “Tunza mazingira yakutunze” (Protect the environment, and it will protect you), the Minister underlined the connection between environmental preservation and economic stability.
“By safeguarding our environment, we secure rainfall, water resources, agricultural productivity, and clean air, contributing to a healthier, more prosperous society. This is wisdom we must pass down to our children, starting in schools,” she explained.
Dr. Chana encouraged the strengthening of environmental clubs in schools, noting that they play a vital role in teaching students about conservation, tourism, and sustainable practices.
The Minister lauded President Samia Suluhu Hassan for initiatives such as Tanzania: The Royal Tour and Amazing Tanzania, which have significantly elevated the country’s global tourism profile.
She described the Same Tourism Festival as a reflection of the President’s vision to position tourism as a key economic driver.
“This festival not only attracts visitors but also educates the public on environmental conservation and the importance of protecting critical water sources such as the Chome Forest,” she remarked.
Dr. Chana urged local councils to allocate budgets for such initiatives rather than relying solely on external stakeholders. She emphasized that conservation and tourism development are priorities outlined in the CCM Party Manifesto.
“Even the Father of the Nation, Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, underscored the importance of safeguarding our resources. This is why we have a dedicated conservation force,” she added.
Calling for community involvement, the Minister encouraged citizens to work with the government in identifying and addressing threats to natural resources.
“We must tackle the challenges of human-wildlife interactions to prevent harm and protect livelihoods,” she stated.
Same District Commissioner Kasilda highlighted the festival’s achievements, including the promotion and improvement of 20 tourist attractions.
Among these is Mount Kidege, a newly identified site poised to become a major visitor destination and revenue source for the district.
Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports, Metheusela Ntonda, emphasized the importance of integrating cultural heritage with tourism to enrich the festival experience.
The festival, which featured performances by various artists, has drawn widespread acclaim and will conclude tomorrow.
Dr. Chana’s directives and the festival’s success underscore Tanzania’s commitment to sustainable tourism and conservation as vital components of national development.