Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Ashatu Kijaji, led hundreds of local and foreign tourists in a New Year’s Eve Safari Celebration at Mikumi National Park on December 31, 2025, marking the transition into the New Year 2026 in one of Tanzania’s iconic wildlife destinations.
Dr Kijaji joined visitors on a game drive across the park, where they experienced the rich biodiversity and scenic beauty that define Mikumi National Park.
The celebrations offered a unique opportunity for tourists to welcome the new year in the heart of nature, surrounded by wildlife and vast savannah landscapes.
She was accompanied by the Deputy Permanent Secretary for Tourism in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, Mr Nkoba Mabula, the Eastern Zone Conservation Commander, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Conservation John Nyamhanga, and the Chief Warden of Mikumi National Park, Assistant Commissioner of Conservation Augustine Massesa, along with other invited guests.
The event attracted a large turnout of Tanzanians and international visitors, underscoring the growing interest in domestic tourism and the increasing appreciation of the country’s natural attractions.
Through her participation, Dr Kijaji demonstrated the government’s continued commitment to promoting domestic tourism and encouraging citizens to visit national parks and other tourist sites.
She commended the strong response from the public, noting that the impressive turnout at Mikumi reflects rising awareness of the economic, social and environmental value of tourism to the nation.
The ministry reaffirmed its call on Tanzanians to actively take part in domestic tourism, emphasizing that increased local visitation supports conservation efforts while contributing to national economic growth.