The Government, through the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA), has signed five major investment agreements in the conservation and tourism sector valued at more than USD 24 million (about TZS63 billion), in a move expected to boost tourism infrastructure, increase government revenue and strengthen wildlife conservation.
The agreements were signed on January 16, 2026, at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre (JNICC) in Dar es Salaam between TAWA and GBP Trading Ltd.
The investments will be implemented in areas under TAWA’s management, including Mpanga–Kipengere Game Reserve, Kijereshi Game Reserve and the Wami–Mbiki Wildlife Management Area.
Under the deals, two contracts will be implemented at Mpanga–Kipengere, two at Kijereshi and one at Wami–Mbiki, focusing on the development of tourism facilities and services.
The projects are expected to improve visitor experience, attract more tourists and generate higher revenues while ensuring sustainable conservation of natural resources.
Speaking at the event on behalf of the Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Permanent Secretary Dr Hassan Abbasi said the agreements reflect growing investor confidence in Tanzania’s tourism sector, attributing the trend to strong leadership and deliberate promotion efforts by President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
He said initiatives such as The Royal Tour and Amazing Tanzania have raised the country’s profile globally, contributing to a steady increase in tourist arrivals.
According to official figures, international tourist numbers rose from 1.5 million to 2.2 million, while domestic tourism reached 3.2 million. Data up to November 2025 show a nine per cent increase in tourist arrivals.
Dr Abbasi noted that the Sixth Phase Government has created an enabling environment for investment through improved policies and systems, adding that the tourism sector remains stable and open for business.
He assured investors of continued government support to ensure their investments deliver value to the economy and local communities.
TAWA Board Chairperson, retired Major General Hamis Rajab Semfuko, said the agreements are part of a broader strategy to enhance the authority’s revenue base.
He said the projects will add 190 accommodation beds in protected areas and are projected to generate an average of TZS9.2 billion annually.
He added that TAWA has adopted a five-year Revenue Enhancement Strategy for 2025–2030, aimed at making the authority financially self-reliant by the 2027/28 financial year.
The strategy targets annual revenue of Sh189 billion through infrastructure development, diversification of tourism products and strengthening of existing income streams.
Acting TAWA Conservation Commissioner Mlage Yussuf Kabange said the investments go beyond revenue generation, as they include direct benefits to communities living around the protected areas.
These include employment opportunities, support for community development projects and stimulation of local economic activities.
He said TAWA will continue to work closely with investors to ensure smooth implementation of the projects, while encouraging the private sector to tap into the many investment opportunities available in wildlife conservation areas, as Tanzania positions tourism as a key driver of inclusive and sustainable economic growth.