The government has announced wide-ranging reforms to strengthen the Immigration Department as part of its broader strategy to support the fast-growing tourism sector, which continues to play a central role in Tanzania’s economic transformation.
In 2024, Tanzania received 1,924,240 tourists, while arrivals are projected to reach 2,097,823 in 2025 an increase of 173,583 visitors reflecting sustained growth in the industry.
Speaking during a meeting with senior leadership, top officials and officers of the Immigration Department in Zanzibar, Minister for Home Affairs George Simbachawene said immigration officers occupy a strategic position as the first and last point of contact for visitors entering and leaving the country.
He stressed that professionalism, courtesy and integrity in service delivery are critical, noting that tourism generated an estimated TZS10.14 trillion in 2024 alone, further cementing its status as one of the key pillars of the national economy.
Mr Simbachawene said immigration officers effectively serve as the country’s receptionists and diplomats, shaping visitors’ first impressions of Tanzania and influencing the country’s international image.
Beyond entry and exit points, he said officers have a responsibility to support visitors during their stay, whether tourists, investors or other foreign guests, and to intervene where necessary to offer assistance.
The minister also announced plans to strengthen education requirements for immigration personnel to ensure the department keeps pace with the evolving demands of the tourism market.
He said entry-level immigration officers should possess at least a diploma, citing the complexity and sensitivity of their duties.
According to him, multilingual skills will be a key priority, with officers expected to communicate effectively in major international languages such as English, French, Arabic and Chinese.
Mr Simbachawene further explained that new recruits must have attained at least Division Three in their Form Four examinations, allowing them to perform operational duties while also providing room for academic and professional advancement.
He also called on training institutions to incorporate tourism-related studies into immigration training programmes so that officers are well versed in Tanzania’s attractions, wildlife and cultural heritage.
Meanwhile, Zanzibar Immigration Commissioner Hassan Ally Hassan said the department is implementing several infrastructure projects aimed at improving service delivery and working conditions.
The projects include the construction of offices and residential houses for officers in Micheweni, North Pemba; the ongoing development of the Urban West Regional Immigration Office; the construction of the Immigration Training College in Kitogani; and a district immigration office in Paje.
He said the initiatives are part of ongoing efforts to modernise the department and enhance Zanzibar’s contribution to the growth of national tourism.