The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Land, Natural Resources, and Tourism, led by Chairperson Timotheo Mnzava (MP), visited Karatu on March 13, 2026, to witness firsthand the extraordinary human heritage preserved in Ngorongoro.
During the visit, the committee was shown evidence that Ngorongoro is one of the few places in the world where the earliest traces of human life have been preserved.
This priceless heritage is safeguarded at the Geopark Heritage Museum in Karatu, Arusha Region, where ancient human history is documented and displayed for public education and research.
Chief Conservator of Antiquities, Dr. Agness Gidna, told the committee that the Ngorongoro Conservation Area provides a continuous record of human life spanning over three million years, from early humans to modern generations.
Committee members praised the museum and urged the Ngorongoro Conservation Authority to continue promoting the site’s unique global significance.
Chairperson Mnzava also recommended that the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism expand marketing efforts for Ngorongoro’s attractions, including the museum, to reach international audiences.
Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr. Ashatu Kijaji (MP), informed the committee that the ministry is implementing strategic campaigns across Europe, Asia, and the Americas to promote Tanzania’s tourism sector.
The government aims to attract over eight million tourists annually by 2030, introducing at least one new tourism product to the market each year.
Ngorongoro Conservation Commissioner, Mr. Abdul-Razaq Badru, highlighted ongoing improvements to the museum and visitor infrastructure, which are designed to enhance tourist experiences and reinforce Ngorongoro’s reputation as a premium safari destination.
