The National Museum of Tanzania has been urged to strengthen its role in preserving the country’s history and culture while increasing its contribution to tourism and economic growth.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Hassan Abbasi, said museums should not only serve as centres for conserving national heritage but also become active contributors to development through improved services, increased public engagement and stronger revenue generation.
Dr Abbasi made the remarks on July 20, 2026, when he met the management and staff of the National Museum of Tanzania at its headquarters in Dar es Salaam to review the institution’s performance for the 2025/26 financial year and outline priorities for 2026/27.
The meeting was attended by National Museum of Tanzania Director General Dr Noel Biseko Lwoga, who received the Permanent Secretary during the visit.
Dr Abbasi said the museum sector has a wider role beyond cultural preservation, noting that its impact should be reflected in society, the economy and national development.
“This sector has its contribution to society, politics and the economy, and that contribution must be visible. Strong foundations must be established for the institution to effectively fulfil its responsibilities,” he said.
He directed the institution to focus on sustainable strategies that can increase revenue, strengthen partnerships and improve the preservation and promotion of Tanzania’s national heritage.
The Permanent Secretary also instructed the museum’s Marketing and Public Relations Unit to develop stronger promotional programmes aimed at increasing public awareness, attracting more visitors and enhancing the institution’s financial sustainability.
He said the government would continue supporting the National Museum of Tanzania in improving services, protecting historical assets and ensuring that heritage contributes more to the country’s economic growth, particularly through tourism.
During the visit, Dr Abbasi toured the permanent exhibition displaying the first aircraft used by Tanzania’s founding President, the late Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere.
He called for further improvements to the exhibition area to provide visitors with a richer learning experience on the historical importance of the aircraft and its connection to Tanzania’s national journey.
The move comes as Tanzania continues preparations towards the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where heritage sites and cultural attractions are expected to play a role in showcasing the country’s identity to international visitors.
