Tourism and environmental advocate Andrew Chale marked his 41st birthday by treating children from Shalom Orphanage in Karatu to a learning and wildlife experience in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, turning his personal celebration into an opportunity to give back to the community.
The event, held on October 21, 2026, under the theme “Karibu Nyumbani, Celebrate with Ngorongoro,” was facilitated by the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA).
The children visited the Olduvai Gorge Museum, where they learned about human history, before experiencing the wildlife and natural attractions of the Ngorongoro Crater.
The initiative combined tourism education with social support, giving the children an opportunity to explore one of Tanzania’s internationally recognised heritage destinations while participating in Chale’s birthday celebration.
Chale thanked the NCAA for supporting the initiative and urged Tanzanians to consider celebrating personal milestones at destinations within the country.
“I thank the NCAA. I urge Tanzanians to use our domestic tourist attractions to celebrate birthdays and achievements,” he said.
Beyond the excursion, Chale donated gifts to Shalom Orphanage as part of the initiative, which he holds annually on October 21 by celebrating with special groups and people in need.
His approach highlights how personal celebrations can also provide opportunities to support vulnerable communities while encouraging domestic tourism.
Tanzania has a range of tourism attractions, including national parks, conservation areas, historical sites and cultural destinations.
Encouraging more residents to visit these places could help strengthen domestic tourism while expanding public appreciation of the country’s natural and historical heritage.
For the children from Shalom, the visit offered an opportunity to learn beyond the classroom and experience the wildlife and history of Ngorongoro, while sharing a memorable occasion with Chale.