Forty students appointed as Wildlife and Tourism Ambassadors in Babati District, Manyara Region, have pledged to protect the Kwakuchinja wildlife corridor in the Burunge Community Wildlife Management Area (WMA), a vital passage linking Tarangire and Manyara National Parks.
The students, from four secondary schools within Burunge WMA, made the pledge after returning from a conservation and tourism training tour at Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, funded by the Chem Chem Association.
Prosper Frank, a student from Mbughwe Secondary School and leader of the group, said the training equipped them with knowledge to educate communities on protecting wildlife corridors.
“We have learned so much about conservation and tourism. Our slogan, ‘Kwakuchinja Corridor Shall Never Die’, reflects our commitment. We will share this knowledge in schools and villages and hope the government will invite us to community meetings to extend conservation awareness,” he said.
The four-day program focused on conservation, tourism, patriotism, and reducing human-wildlife conflicts. Frank emphasized that the experience inspired them to take responsibility for safeguarding the country’s natural resources.
Speaking on behalf of Babati District authorities, Ward Education Officer Emmiliana Fred praised Chem Chem for the initiative. She said the government will continue collaborating with investors to promote conservation and tourism.
“These students were selected based on their excellent performance in conservation and tourism exams. Chem Chem has done a remarkable job, and we are confident annual training will also boost academic performance in Manyara’s secondary schools,” she said.
Chem Chem Association Director, Clever Zulu, said the training is expected to nurture future leaders in conservation and tourism nationwide.
“We aim to develop ambassadors who will advance wildlife protection not only in Burunge but across Tanzania,” he said.
Zulu added that Chem Chem will continue partnering with the government and other stakeholders to make Burunge WMA a premier African tourist destination, while supporting community projects in health, water, education, and youth empowerment.
Babati District Secondary Education Officer, Akaro John, who accompanied the students, said the training will positively impact local tourism. Parents also praised Chem Chem for the initiative and pledged continued support.
The delegation’s head, a tour guide from Kananga Company, said the students showed great dedication, understanding the role of conservation and tourism in the national economy and the importance of protecting the Kwakuchinja corridor.