The Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA) has added 268 newly trained rangers to its conservation force, strengthening efforts to combat poaching, protect wildlife and improve security in protected areas.
The rangers graduated on September 5, 2026, after completing six months of military and conservation training at the Mlele Wildlife Conservation Training College in Katavi Region.
Their training covered firearms handling, geographic information systems (GIS), physical fitness, discipline, human rights, management of dangerous and destructive wildlife, and military ethics.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Mlele District Commissioner Majid Mwanga said the government was continuing to strengthen the conservation force by increasing its personnel and improving training infrastructure.
He urged the new rangers to carry out their duties with discipline, integrity and professionalism while rejecting corruption and discrimination.
TAWA Board Chairman’s representative, Prof Jafari Kidegesho, thanked the government for supporting the authority with additional personnel, equipment and improved training facilities.
Acting Conservation Commissioner Mlage Yussuf Kabange said the investment in the conservation workforce would strengthen wildlife protection and support tourism and investment.
He said the new rangers would be expected to play a key role in combating poaching and improving security in protected areas.
“Two hundred and sixty-eight rangers are expected to strengthen the protection of wildlife resources, combat poaching, improve security in protected areas and support government efforts to promote tourism and investment,” Mr Kabange said.
The deployment also comes with a broader responsibility to manage relations between communities and wildlife.
Kabange urged the new rangers to work with local communities, provide conservation education and help reduce human-wildlife conflicts.
The government views wildlife resources as an important asset for tourism, investment and local economic development, making effective protection and community cooperation central to their long-term sustainability.