Tanzania’s cultural heritage sites are invaluable national treasures that must be preserved and developed for future generations, as they reflect the nation’s history and identity.
These sites, established by the country’s founders, including the late Father of the Nation, Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere, serve as crucial symbols of Tanzania’s legacy.
This call to action was made by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr. Hassan Abbasi, during a working session in Njombe.
The session brought together ministry officials and representatives from institutions responsible for managing cultural heritage sites to strengthen collaboration and develop sustainable conservation strategies.
Dr. Abbasi emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting these sites, stressing that the entrusted institutions have a duty to ensure their proper conservation and promotion for the benefit of both present and future generations.
"Our country is blessed with a rare and invaluable cultural heritage, which holds significant historical importance not only for Tanzania but also for the world. It is our responsibility to safeguard and promote these sites so they continue to benefit the nation," he stated.
He further underscored the role of cultural heritage in educating society, particularly the youth, about Tanzania’s history, values, unity, and national pride.
In today’s rapidly globalizing world, he noted, it is essential to preserve and promote local culture to counter the growing influence of foreign traditions.
While commending the institutions for their ongoing efforts, Dr. Abbasi encouraged them to strengthen cooperation in ensuring the sustainable protection and development of these heritage sites.
The Director of the Department of Antiquities, Dr. Christowaja Ntandu, expressed gratitude to the Permanent Secretary for facilitating the gathering and reaffirmed her department’s commitment to supporting President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan’s vision of preserving and promoting Tanzania’s historical sites, both nationally and internationally.
The meeting was also attended by the Deputy Permanent Secretary responsible for Natural Resources, Commissioner of Police (CP) Benedict Wakulyamba, along with directors and senior officials from the ministry.
Other participants included heads and representatives from the National Museum of Tanzania, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority, the Tanzania Forestry Services Agency, the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority, and the Tanzania National Parks Authority.
