A French mental health expert and academic, Prof. Chantal Henry, has described Tanzania as a therapeutic destination for people dealing with mental health challenges, citing her personal experiences and research conducted in various parts of the country.
Speaking in Paris on July 8, 2025, during a meeting with Tanzania’s Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Ambassador Dr. Pindi Chana, Prof. Henry said her new book titled Tanzano-Therapie documents the psychological healing effects of nature-based tourism in Tanzania.
Prof. Henry, a senior lecturer at the University of Paris East Creteil (UPEC) and a practicing psychiatrist, said her findings are based on visits to some of Tanzania’s most iconic conservation areas including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Gombe-Mahale National Parkswhere she initially travelled with her family before returning to conduct interviews and field research.
“I was able to witness the impact of the natural environment on mental well-being not only through my own experience but also through extensive interviews with other tourists,” she said.
“My research shows that spending time in Tanzania’s national parks can help people struggling with different levels of psychological distress, and even those simply seeking a mental reset. Tanzania is more than just a tourist destination it is therapy.”
Minister Chana praised the book, written in French, for introducing a fresh perspective on Tanzania’s tourism potential particularly in the growing area of wellness and psychological health.
She said the publication complements ongoing government efforts to promote the country internationally, led by President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan through flagship initiatives like Tanzania: The Royal Tour and Amazing Tanzania.
“This book demonstrates that tourism in Tanzania is not just about beautiful scenery and wildlife. It also offers healing mental, emotional, and even spiritual,” said Dr. Chana.
Prof. Henry has published more than 300 scholarly works, including the widely referenced article Don’t Forget the Benefits of Empathy.
In addition to her university role, she operates a clinic in Paris offering care to people facing mental health challenges.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dr. Hassan Abbasi, said the government is engaging with Prof. Henry to facilitate the translation of the book into English, Swahili, and other international languages to make it accessible to a wider audience.
“This work has the potential to reach more people and further position Tanzania as a destination of choice for wellness tourism,” he noted.
Tanzania’s Ambassador to France, Mr. Ali Mwadini, who was also present during the meeting, said the book was officially launched at the Tanzanian Embassy in Paris in June this year.
Minister Chana is currently in Paris attending the 47th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, where Tanzania will present progress reports on the management and conservation of its natural and cultural heritage sites.