Tanzania has taken a bold step to transform its tourism sector by tapping into the country’s clear night skies.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism launched a three-day astrotourism training in Karatu, Arusha Region, today, targeting tourism stakeholders who will drive the growth of this emerging niche.
Secretary-General Dr. Hassan Abbasi, who officiated the opening, said the initiative is part of the Ministry’s strategy to diversify tourism products and create new economic opportunities for local communities.
“Astrotourism is more than stargazing; it is a tool to grow tourism, involve communities, and generate sustainable income,” he said.
Organized by the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA) in collaboration with the Open University of Tanzania (OUT), the training features international experts from Astrotourism Aotearoa in New Zealand, the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory at Harvard University, and Dark Sky International, based in Arizona, USA.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor of OUT, Prof. Saganga Kapaya, noted that Tanzania has unique potential for astrotourism.
With over one-third of the country’s land preserved, many areas experience exceptionally dark skies at night, offering more than 95% visibility of celestial phenomena higher than most African countries.
Facilitator Prof. John Hearnshaw from New Zealand said the sessions will focus on four main areas: managing astrotourism with communities, the physics of the night sky, telescope operation, and astrophotography for tourism.
More than 70 participants including tour operators, guides, hoteliers, government agencies, conservation authorities, educators, astronomers, and policymakers are attending the training.
By harnessing its starry skies, Tanzania is not only enhancing its tourism portfolio but also creating pathways for research, innovation, and community-driven ventures, solidifying its position as a leading astrotourism destination in Africa.