Tanzania is making a strong push on the global tourism stage by competing in 20 categories at the 2025 World Travel Awards (WTA), facing 24 nominees that include top institutions and key stakeholders from the tourism sector.
Speaking in Dar es Salaam on October 13, 2025, during the launch of the voting campaign, Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB) Director Ephraim Mafuru described the milestone as historic.
He said it reflects the growing international recognition of Tanzania as a premier travel destination.
“Traditionally, Tanzania has excelled at continental-level awards, but this year we are competing at the global level. Last year, we were named the World’s Leading Safari Destination, an accolade that has further promoted our country internationally,” Mafuru said.
The World Travel Awards are prestigious international accolades that celebrate excellence, innovation, and top-quality service in the tourism and travel sector worldwide.
Established in 1993, they are often referred to as the ‘Oscars of the Tourism Industry’ due to their prestige and global influence.
Mafuru said the awards recognize and encourage quality across all tourism segments, including airlines, national parks, hotels, tourist cities, travel companies, and national tourism institutions such as TTB.
He urged Tanzanians to actively participate in voting through mobile phones and social media from October 6 to October 16, 2025.
Tanzania is competing in several categories, including Best Tourist Destination, Best Tourism Board, Best National Park, Best Tourist Attraction, and Best Airport.
“Winning these awards will boost Tanzania’s profile in global tourism, attract more visitors, and strengthen efforts to protect the country’s natural resources and heritage,” Mafuru said.
He also credited the government’s strong investment in the tourism sector, led by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism under President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, for Tanzania’s current success.
The President has been instrumental in promoting the country’s attractions through official visits, the Royal Tour film, and public speeches.