The Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr. Ashatu Kijaji (MP), has called on Tanzanians to take pride in the country’s natural resources, describing conservation as the foundation of life, the economy, tourism, and national identity.
Speaking during a visit to the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) headquarters in Arusha on November 27, 2025, Minister Kijaji urged local communities to actively participate in protecting forests, wildlife, and national parks, emphasizing that they are the first line of defense for these resources.
“Tanzania has everything needed to be the number one tourism destination in Africa and the world. Together, we can achieve this,” she said.
Minister Kijaji also instructed TANAPA management to continue improving staff welfare to motivate better service delivery to visitors while strengthening the protection of national assets.
She highlighted the government’s goal of attracting eight million tourists by 2030 and noted that all institutions under her ministry have a crucial role in achieving this target.
“The government is increasing the number of rangers, improving stations, introducing new equipment, and embracing technology. We must use these tools effectively, innovate new attractions, and promote sites in the Western, Southern, and Eastern regions to boost revenue and expand tourism,” she said.
Deputy Minister Hamad Chande (MP) added that conservation is a national honor entrusted to wildlife and forest officers, who must safeguard parks and reserves around the clock.
He also urged for continuous infrastructure improvements to make parks more visitor-friendly and enhance tourism experiences.
TANAPA Commissioner for Conservation, Mussa Nassoro Kuji, described the Minister’s visit as a strong boost to ongoing conservation efforts, promising that TANAPA will continue protecting biodiversity and managing parks using modern technology and strategies.
Minister Kijaji, accompanied by Deputy Minister Chande, Permanent Secretary Dr. Hassan Abbas, and senior directors from the Ministry, also visited Lake Manyara National Park to witness firsthand its tourism potential and ongoing activities.