The Government of Tanzania, through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the business and investment environment in the tourism sector, recognizing its critical role in driving economic growth and national development.
Speaking at the opening of the Third Ministerial Public-Private Dialogue (MPPD) for the tourism sector held on May 13, 2025, at St. Gasper Hotel in Dodoma, the Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Ambassador Dr. Pindi Chana, emphasized the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to support the sector.
“We are continuing to implement various strategies to grow tourism, including improving service delivery, infrastructure, and the promotion of our attractions,” said Chana.
She noted that these efforts have already yielded results, with tourist numbers rising to 5,360,247 comprising 3,218,352 domestic tourists and 2,141,895 international tourists generating approximately USD 3.3 billion in revenue.
Dr. Chana also highlighted Tanzania’s global recognition, stating, “The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), in its January 2024 World Tourism Barometer, named Tanzania among the best-performing global destinations from January to December 2023.” She added that Tanzania now ranks first in Africa for the highest increase in foreign tourist arrivals compared to pre-COVID-19 figures and 12th globally, following countries such as Turkey, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Ethiopia.
Furthermore, she celebrated Tanzania’s achievements in global tourism awards: “We’ve continued to receive international accolades, including Africa’s Leading Destination, World’s Leading Safari Destination, and recognition for Serengeti National Park as the world’s best park.Mount Kilimanjaro has also been honored as Africa’s Leading Tourist Attraction, and the Tanzania Tourist Board has been awarded as the Best Tourism Board in Africa.”she added
Chana called on stakeholders to strengthen their collaboration with the Ministry, urging, “Let us continue working together to manage and develop this vital sector for the greater good of our country.”she added
Supporting the Minister’s remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Hassan Abbasi, clarified concerns regarding payment regulations.
“Foreign currency transactions for international tourism payments will continue as usual,” he explained. “Foreign exchange controls are only for domestic transactions.”she added
He also reassured stakeholders by stating, “There will be no abrupt introduction of new charges, and should the need arise in the future, all tourism stakeholders will be fully involved.”she added
Representing the private sector, the Chairman of the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO), Mr. Wilbard Chambulo, urged the Government to continue improving infrastructure in protected areas to attract more investment.
“We also request the Government to maintain the use of foreign currency in international tourism business transactions,” said Chambulo.
He further stressed the importance of addressing insurance for tour guides and porters and called for investment contracts to ensure fairness for all parties involved.