The Parliamentary Committee on Land, Natural Resources and Tourism has expressed satisfaction with the implementation of conservation projects aimed at breeding and protecting black rhinos and African wild dogs at Mkomazi National Park, saying the initiatives are helping restore species that were once pushed to the brink of extinction.
The committee’s Chairperson, Timotheo Mnzava, made the remarks on March 15, 2026, after leading committee members on an oversight visit to inspect the projects and assess their progress.
He said the committee was impressed by the increase in the population of the rare animals and the advanced conservation systems being used to protect them, including digital monitoring technology alongside traditional patrol methods.
“These projects give hope for conservation and tourism development. They are encouraging because they expand Tanzania’s tourism products and contribute to national revenue through the tourism sector,” Mnzava said.
The black rhino conservation project at Mkomazi was launched in 2018 and completed in 2021 as part of efforts to restore the population of the endangered species, which had declined drastically due to widespread poaching during the 1980s and 1990s.
Mnzava said the visit had also demonstrated the dedication and courage of conservation officers who continue to protect wildlife and other natural attractions within protected areas.
Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism Ashatu Kijaji said the government will continue strengthening conservation efforts by improving infrastructure, equipment and security systems in national parks and protected areas.
She said the ministry is investing in modern technology and digital systems to enhance surveillance and combat poaching and the destruction of natural resources that are vital to the country’s tourism industry.
“The government will continue improving infrastructure, working tools and security systems in protected areas to strengthen conservation and ensure sustainable tourism growth,” Dr Kijaji said.
Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Hassan Abbas, said the success of the rhino conservation project has created opportunities to expand other conservation initiatives, including the breeding and protection of African wild dogs.
He added that the ministry will also continue recognising individuals who have contributed significantly to conservation by naming animals after them as a way of preserving their legacy. Some rhinos have already been named Fausta, Waitara and Azam.
Same District Administrative Secretary Mamdolwa Gembe said the district takes pride in hosting the national park, noting that it has opened up economic opportunities for local communities and boosted tourism activities in the area.
She said the presence of the park has also led to the establishment of the Same Tourism Festival, an annual event that promotes local attractions and encourages both Tanzanians and international visitors to explore the district.
Earlier, the Chief Warden of Mkomazi National Park, Assistant Commissioner for Conservation Eva Mallya, said the park currently hosts about 50 black rhinos and 12 African wild dogs.
She noted that some animals had previously been relocated to other protected areas across the country as part of broader conservation efforts, while the remaining populations continue to grow and attract both domestic and international tourists.
