The Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA) Conservation Commissioner, Abdul-Razaq Badru, has begun a series of ward-to-ward visits aimed at strengthening relations between the Authority and communities living within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area following the 2025 General Election.
The visits come after the election of new ward councillors and are intended to enhance cooperation with local leaders, listen to community concerns and jointly identify solutions that support environmental conservation while improving the livelihoods and welfare of residents.
Mr Badru launched the tour in Endulen Ward on December 20, 2025, where he met the ward councillor, Dr Elias Sakara Nagol, and residents.
Discussions focused on improving collaboration in law enforcement, addressing human–wildlife conflict and enhancing access to social services funded by the Authority.
He said the ward visits would continue as part of efforts to engage leaders at ward and village levels, emphasising the importance of joint planning and dialogue in ensuring safe coexistence between people, wildlife and the environment.
“I will continue visiting wards within the conservation area whenever possible to engage with local leaders so that together we can address our challenges and develop strategies for peaceful coexistence,” Mr Badru said.
In Endulen Ward, the Authority is implementing several development initiatives, including a water supply project expected to improve access to clean water in several villages and ease shortages affecting both households and livestock.
NCAA also supports the provision of fuel for generators and offers educational assistance to children from low-income families.
Similar water projects are underway in other wards within Ngorongoro Division, including Kakesio, Nainokanoka and Olbalbal, with borehole drilling expected to significantly reduce persistent water shortages once completed.
Residents have welcomed the initiative, saying increased engagement between the Authority and communities has helped ease tensions.
Ms Esupat Saitoti, a resident of Ngorongoro Division, said regular meetings and improved services had strengthened trust between local people and NCAA rangers.
Another Endulen resident, Mr Emmanuel Ole Saitoti Joseph, praised the Authority’s leadership, saying officials had become more accessible and responsive to community concerns.
The Authority is also planning to work with the Tanzania Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA) to improve internal roads within the conservation area to ensure year-round accessibility.
Similar improvements have already been carried out on the road linking Ngorongoro Ward, Misigyo, Endulen and Kakesio to Meatu.
Ngorongoro Division has 25 villages located within the conservation area, where daily life and conservation efforts are closely intertwined.
As the ward-to-ward tour continues, it is expected to strengthen mutual understanding, promote respect for laws and regulations and enhance collaboration between communities, conservation officers and service providers, reinforcing a participatory conservation approach that balances environmental protection with the wellbeing and dignity of residents.