The Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA), working with the Tanga Regional Secretariat and Mkinga District Council, has launched the compensation exercise for residents of Makota Village to pave the way for the inclusion of the Mto Umba buffer zone into Mkomazi National Park.
The exercise, conducted on December 4, 2025, marks a major step in expanding tourism and strengthening conservation efforts in the northern corridor.
Tanga Regional Commissioner, Ambassador Dr. Batilda Buriani, said the agreement reached between the government and the community will open new opportunities for Tanga to establish an official tourist entry point into Mkomazi National Park through Mkinga District.
She said the development aligns with the region’s vision to attract more local and international visitors and enhance economic returns linked to tourism growth.
“The expansion aims to improve sustainable conservation inside Mkomazi National Park. The Mto Umba area will serve as a new access route into the park, and as tourism grows, visitors will have more opportunities to explore our attractions and contribute to national revenue, which previously accounted for about 6.4 percent,” she said.
Dr. Buriani added that incorporating the buffer zone will also reduce long-standing human–wildlife conflicts, especially elephant incursions that damage farms and household property during the planting and dry seasons.
She urged TANAPA to continue using modern tools, including bee-drone technology, to control dangerous wildlife and protect communities.
Northern Zone Conservation Commissioner, Steria Ndaga, said 115 residents are being relocated from the designated area, and all assessments have been completed. Compensation is now being issued to allow the land to be fully dedicated to conservation.
She noted that the area holds high tourism value, with diverse wildlife, rich vegetation, and unique bird species, making it suitable for eco-tourism and scientific research.
Ndaga said several studies and government reviews concluded that the area should be protected for long-term national benefit.
Mkinga District Commissioner Gilbert Kilima thanked community members for their cooperation throughout the process and emphasized that conservation remains a shared national responsibility.
The compensation process is being overseen by TANAPA, the Tanga Regional Commissioner’s Office, Mkinga District authorities, and local leaders to ensure transparency and that each beneficiary receives the correct payment based on official evaluations.