Wildlife conservation efforts in Manyara Region have received a boost after 49 rangers from Burunge Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in Babati District underwent specialised training in first aid, tourism safety and modern patrol techniques to strengthen the fight against poaching.
The four-day training was conducted by United States Air Force personnel through the US Embassy in Tanzania, in partnership with Chem Chem Association, a conservation organisation involved in tourism investment and wildlife protection initiatives in the area.
The programme focused on improving rangers’ ability to respond to emergencies involving tourists and local communities, while equipping them with advanced skills for conducting patrols and addressing wildlife security threats.
Speaking during the opening of the training, Babati District Council Community Development Officer January Bikubwa said the initiative had strengthened the capacity of rangers to deliver better services to communities and visitors.
He said the newly acquired skills would help improve emergency response and enhance safety for tourists visiting Burunge WMA and residents living around the conservation area.
Babati District Wildlife Officer Beatrice Onesmo said the training had introduced rangers to improved patrol approaches that would support efforts to curb illegal wildlife activities.
“Rangers have gained modern patrol skills that will help them respond effectively to poaching and other conservation challenges,” she said.
US Air Force trainer Captain Benjamin McCall said the training was designed to improve the rangers’ operational capabilities, particularly in emergency response and wildlife protection.
“We believe their first aid skills have improved, alongside their ability to handle challenges related to wildlife protection,” he said.
Chem Chem Chief Executive Officer Clever Zulu said the organisation supported the training to enhance professionalism among rangers and improve conservation standards in Burunge WMA.
Zulu said strengthening ranger capacity was important in making the area a competitive tourism destination by ensuring visitors receive quality services while wildlife is effectively protected.
He added that improved security and conservation standards would help attract more visitors, including high-value tourists, contributing to growth in tourism revenues.
“This will help position Burunge WMA as a safe and attractive destination, which can increase tourism earnings and create more benefits for local communities and the country,” he said.
One of the participants, Fatuma Seleman, said the training had provided practical knowledge that would improve their daily responsibilities.
The latest training is part of continued efforts to build the capacity of conservation officers in Burunge WMA. Previous programmes have focused on modern security technologies, suspect handling, investigations and preparation of legal cases.
The partnership reflects ongoing efforts by Tanzania and international conservation stakeholders to strengthen wildlife protection, improve tourism safety and support sustainable management of natural resources.
