Newly appointed Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Ashatu Kijaji, began her tenure on Monday with a firm commitment to addressing long-standing conflicts within Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) and rising encroachment on wildlife corridors two issues now central to Tanzania’s conservation and tourism agenda.
After reporting to the ministry in Dodoma, shortly after her swearing-in by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, Dr Kijaji underscored the need for a public service culture that respects citizens’ dignity while strengthening the tourism sector.
However, her immediate task will involve stabilising WMAs, many of which have struggled with governance challenges, community disputes and strained relationships with investors.
Conservation specialist Joram Mallya said the ministry must adopt a more coherent management approach to improve WMA performance nationwide.
He noted that out of 38 WMAs, only Ikona is operating successfully, with most others facing leadership weaknesses that hinder their ability to contribute meaningfully to tourism growth and community development.
“WMAs are a vital component of Tanzania’s conservation strategy, but many are falling short of expectations,” Mallya said.
“Without stronger oversight and competent leadership, the potential of these areas will remain underutilised, and conflicts will persist.”he added
Mallya also raised concern over increased human activity in wildlife corridors, warning that continued encroachment threatens both ecological stability and community safety.
He said shrinking migration routes are driving more wildlife into farms and settlements, exacerbating tensions between humans and animals.
While acknowledging these challenges, Dr Kijaji said all reforms must be guided by principles of human dignity and service excellence.
She reminded staff that the CCM Manifesto places strong emphasis on people’s welfare, and that communities living near conservation areas cannot prosper if crop destruction by wildlife continues unchecked.
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She urged the ministry to adopt long-term solutions that protect livelihoods while strengthening conservation efforts.
“Our responsibility is to ensure Tanzanians are served with dignity and that their wellbeing remains at the centre of our decisions,” she said. “More than 61 million citizens depend on the work we do.”
Deputy Minister Hamad Hassan Chande and Permanent Secretary Dr Hassan Abbas assured the new minister of full cooperation.
They said the ministry is ready to enhance service delivery, improve citizen engagement and promote Tanzania’s tourism potential more effectively.
Earlier, Dr Kijaji inspected a parade by the Conservation and Protection Force, signalling the start of what is expected to be a proactive and reform-driven term.