By Alfred Zacharia
Tanzania's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Dr. Doto Biteko, on Friday inaugurated the KARIBU-KILIFAIR 2025, a major regional tourism exhibition aimed at promoting the country's natural attractions to international buyers and travel industry stakeholders.
Held at the Magereza Grounds in Arusha, the annual event brings together exhibitors and participants from across East Africa and beyond, spotlighting Tanzania's ambition to strengthen its position as a premier tourism destination on the continent.
“We are here to show the world that Tanzania is open for tourism and investment,” Dr. Biteko said during the opening ceremony. “Our national parks, cultural heritage, and hospitality remain unmatched.”
The Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA), which manages 21 national parks nationwide, is among the lead exhibitors, promoting the country’s ecological diversity and protected areas.
TANAPA was represented by Deputy Commissioner for Conservation and Business Development, Massana Mwishawa.
The event also drew the participation of senior government officials, including Deputy Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dunstan Kitandula, Deputy Permanent Secretary Nkoba Mabula, Arusha Regional Commissioner Paul Makonda, and local government leaders.
Tourism is a key sector in Tanzania’s economy, contributing around 17 percent to GDP and employing over 1.6 million people in 2024. The government is working to revive the sector following global disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and to tap into emerging markets through initiatives like KARIBU-KILIFAIR.
Organizers say this year’s edition has attracted hundreds of exhibitors, tour operators, and investors, creating opportunities for partnerships and showcasing innovations in eco-tourism, conservation, and cultural travel experiences.
