By Calvin Katera, Arusha
The government has directed all institutions under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism to hold regular consultations with tourism and conservation stakeholders every three months starting October 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration and improve the business environment in one of Tanzania’s key economic sectors.
Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism Dr Ashatu Kijaji issued the directive on June 18 during a high-level meeting between the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) and tourism and conservation stakeholders in Arusha.
The meeting reviewed TANAPA’s permit issuance systems and explored ways to improve services for tourists visiting attractions within national parks.
Dr Kijaji said sustained dialogue between government agencies and the private sector was critical in addressing emerging challenges, enhancing efficiency and maintaining Tanzania’s competitiveness as a leading tourism destination.
“Stakeholders and institutions must meet regularly to discuss challenges and identify solutions together. Strong cooperation is essential for the continued growth of tourism and conservation in the country,” she said.
In a further step to improve engagement, the minister directed the formation of a special committee comprising five representatives from the private sector. The committee will work with government experts to review concerns raised by stakeholders, recommend improvements and help resolve operational bottlenecks affecting the industry.
The move comes as the government seeks to balance conservation objectives with the need to create a more efficient and investor-friendly tourism sector.
Dr Kijaji noted that reforms and new systems introduced by the government are intended to benefit both tourism operators and public institutions by improving service delivery, increasing efficiency and boosting revenue generation.
She said stronger collaboration would ultimately contribute to national economic development while ensuring sustainable management of Tanzania’s rich natural resources.
Speaking at the meeting, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism Dr Hassan Abbasi said the Sixth Phase Government under President Samia Suluhu Hassan has continued to invest heavily in infrastructure within protected areas to support tourism growth.
He cited recent funding allocated to rehabilitate infrastructure damaged by heavy rains in the Serengeti National Park, alongside ongoing projects to upgrade road networks to all-weather standards.
According to Dr Abbasi, improved infrastructure is enhancing visitor experiences, facilitating conservation activities and increasing access to some of the country’s most important tourism attractions.
TANAPA Conservation Commissioner CPA Mussa Nassoro Kuji said the authority has continued to strengthen cooperation with tourism associations, particularly the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO), to address challenges facing operators and improve service delivery.
He noted that infrastructure investments within national parks have played an important role in supporting tourism growth while protecting the country's natural heritage.
For tourism operators, closer cooperation between conservation authorities and the private sector is key to unlocking the industry's full potential.
TATO Vice-Chairman Henry Kimambo said successful promotion of Tanzania’s tourism attractions depends on a strong partnership between conservation agencies and industry players.
“The tourism value chain relies on both conservation authorities and private operators. Continued collaboration is necessary if Tanzania is to maintain its position as a preferred destination in the global tourism market,” he said.
He urged the government to continue creating an enabling environment for tour companies and guides, arguing that predictable policies and efficient systems are crucial for attracting visitors and investment.
Tourism remains among Tanzania’s top foreign exchange earners and a major source of employment. Industry stakeholders believe that regular consultations and stronger public-private cooperation could help address longstanding challenges while positioning the sector for sustained growth in the years ahead.
