Tanzania’s tourism and conservation sector has continued to expand, with lawmakers saying ongoing investments in infrastructure, wildlife conservation and international promotion are increasing the country’s global visibility and economic opportunities.
The issues emerged in Parliament in Dodoma during debate on the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism’s budget estimates for the 2026/27 financial year.
Hanang Member of Parliament, Asia Halamga, said the sector has become one of the country’s key economic drivers under the Sixth Phase Government led by President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
She said Tanzania has continued to attract international recognition through its tourism and conservation efforts, contributing to stronger global attention on the country’s natural attractions and investment potential.
The legislator pointed to ongoing improvements in tourism infrastructure, including the construction of more than three airports and rehabilitation of eight others aimed at easing access to tourist destinations.
She said the upgrading of Ruaha Airport is expected to open up tourism and business opportunities in different parts of the country while supporting local economic growth.
Halamga also linked the government’s purchase of heavy road construction equipment to wider efforts to improve transport infrastructure around protected areas and tourism sites.
She called for increased budget allocations to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, arguing that the sector continues to contribute significantly to domestic revenue collection, foreign exchange earnings and employment creation.
According to the MP, Tanzania’s participation in international tourism conferences and exhibitions has also strengthened cooperation with countries including Turkey and contributed to rising tourist arrivals.
On conservation, she said the country’s wildlife census programme conducted every 10 years remains important in monitoring natural resources and guiding sustainable conservation policies.
She further urged the government to distribute beehives to councils with strong beekeeping potential, including Hanang District Council, saying the move could support household incomes while strengthening environmental conservation efforts.
