Manyara Region is positioning itself as a leading luxury tourism destination, with the recent international recognition of Chem Chem Safari Lodge highlighting the area’s potential for high-end tourism.
The five-star lodge, located between Tarangire and Manyara National Parks in the Burunge Wildlife Management Area, won both Tanzania’s and Africa’s Luxury Safari Lodge awards at the World Travel Awards held in Dar es Salaam.
The awards, hosted in Tanzania for the first time since 1993, attracted global investors, tourism stakeholders, and national park authorities.
Babati District Commissioner Emmanuela Kaganda Mtatifikolo said the lodge’s success reflects a combination of private investment, community engagement, and supportive government policies.
“Chem Chem Lodge attracts thousands of visitors by protecting the environment, partnering with local communities, and offering world-class services. This, combined with government initiatives under President Samia Suluhu, has strengthened Tanzania’s profile as a top tourist destination,” he said.
The region has recorded 1.65 million visitors this year, contributing to Tanzania’s national target of 5.3 million tourists in 2025.
President Samia emphasized that tourism development remains central to CCM’s manifesto goal of attracting eight million visitors in five years.
Under the leadership of Manyara Regional Commissioner Queen Sendiga, the region is actively improving infrastructure, conservation practices, and community-based tourism initiatives.
Mtatifikolo noted that these efforts have created a sustainable model where tourism growth benefits both investors and local communities.
During her Babati rally, President Samia also highlighted government plans to resolve land disputes in protected areas and return unused wheat farms in Hanang District to local residents.
These measures aim to ease pressures on the Barbaig community, who have faced migration challenges in search of grazing land.
Manyara’s growing reputation as a luxury tourism hub demonstrates how high-quality services, strategic investment, and government support can transform regional tourism into a driver of economic growth and international acclaim.