More than 90 tourists visited Mkomazi National Park on April 11, 2026, marking a strong start to the third edition of the Same Tourism Festival and highlighting the growing momentum of domestic tourism in northern Tanzania.
The visitors toured key areas of the park, including Mbula, Kisima and Njiro, where they encountered a range of wildlife species.
The highlight for many was the rare black rhino, a flagship conservation success that continues to position Mkomazi as a unique destination for both local and international travellers.
Speaking during the official launch of the festival in Same District, former Prime Minister John Malecela described such events as vital platforms for promoting tourism and strengthening conservation efforts.
He said festivals not only raise awareness of protected areas but also help unlock new tourism products that can attract a wider range of visitors.
He stressed the need for Tanzanians to take a leading role in exploring their own attractions, noting that improved infrastructure and relatively affordable costs have made domestic travel more accessible.
Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, John Mabula, said visitor numbers at Mkomazi have been on a steady rise, increasing from about 7,800 annually to 11,000 between 2022 and 2026.
The upward trend, he said, reflects growing interest in lesser-known parks and creates opportunities for surrounding communities to benefit economically.
Same District Commissioner Kasilda Mgeni called for structured involvement of local youth in tourism-related activities, particularly bodaboda riders who are often the first point of contact for visitors.
She said equipping them with basic training in customer care and tour guidance could enhance visitor experience while generating income at the grassroots level.
As the Same Tourism Festival gains traction, Mkomazi National Park is increasingly becoming a focal point, offering visitors a rare combination of endangered species, scenic landscapes and an authentic eco-tourism experience.
The growing turnout signals the potential of such initiatives to boost domestic tourism while supporting conservation and local livelihoods.
