A team of 24 climbers from the Unit Trust of Tanzania Asset Management and Investor Services (UTT-AMIS) and the National Development Corporation (NDC) has begun a six-day climb of Mount Kilimanjaro in a campaign aimed at promoting domestic tourism.
The group, which includes 22 UTT-AMIS staff and two officials from NDC, started the ascent through the Marangu Gate on March 23, 2026. The expedition is led by the UTT-AMIS Board Chairman, Faustine Kamzola.
The initiative seeks to encourage Tanzanians to visit and experience the country’s tourist attractions as part of the domestic tourism campaign championed by President Samia Suluhu Hassan through the promotional film Tanzania: The Royal Tour.
Speaking during the send-off ceremony, Moshi District Commissioner Godfrey Mzava said the move by UTT-AMIS and NDC demonstrates how public institutions and private companies can actively promote domestic tourism by visiting the country’s natural attractions.
He said the climb sets an example that could motivate other organisations to participate in tourism activities such as climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, noting that such initiatives help increase tourism revenue for the country.
Mzava also stressed that protecting Mount Kilimanjaro should not be left to the Tanzania National Parks Authority (Tanapa) alone but should involve surrounding communities and all citizens.
He noted that collaborative conservation between communities and park authorities is crucial in safeguarding the natural resources found within the national park.
Kilimanjaro National Park Chief Warden, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Conservation Angela Nyaki, said the climbers had chosen a favourable time for the expedition despite the rainy season.
She explained that during this period the mountain often has sufficient oxygen levels, which can support climbers during their ascent, and expressed optimism that all 24 participants would reach Uhuru Peak.
Nyaki also assured that park authorities are closely monitoring the team’s journey from the start of the climb until their descent to ensure their safety and overall experience in the park.
Kamzola said people climb Mount Kilimanjaro for many reasons, but for the UTT-AMIS team the main goal is to promote physical fitness and improve health.
He added that the expedition also serves as preparation for a larger climb planned for December 9, 2026, when Tanzanians and visitors from various countries traditionally scale the mountain to celebrate the anniversary of mainland Tanzania’s independence.
The climbers are expected to spend their first night at Mandara Hut before continuing their journey toward Uhuru Peak, which stands at 5,895 metres above sea level.
