By Our Reporter
Natural Resources and Tourism Minister Ashatu Kijaji has directed the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA) to complete strategic tourism infrastructure projects at Makuyuni Wildlife Park on schedule, as the government seeks to improve visitor services and tap into opportunities presented by the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon).
The projects, worth TZS1.7 billion and funded through the Tourism Development Levy (TDL), are expected to strengthen the park's infrastructure and improve its ability to attract more visitors.
Speaking during an inspection of the projects on October 25, 2026, Dr Kijaji thanked President Samia Suluhu Hassan for allocating TZS3.2 billion over the past three years towards improving infrastructure at the park.
“We are grateful to our President for continuing to strengthen the tourism sector. In the three years since we were handed this area, we have received TZS3.2 billion, which we are investing in improving infrastructure at Makuyuni Wildlife Park,” she said.
Dr Kijaji said construction of a modern entrance gate and access roads had reached 90 percent completion, directing TAWA to ensure all areas of the park are connected by roads by April 2027.
“The funds are available, so we have no reason to delay,” she stressed.
The directive comes as Tanzania prepares to benefit from increased regional and international travel associated with Afcon 2027, with improved tourism infrastructure expected to help visitors explore attractions beyond the main tournament host cities.
Dr Kijaji also encouraged Tanzanians to visit Makuyuni Wildlife Park, including its planned camping facilities, describing the park as an important gateway to other attractions in the northern tourism circuit.
TAWA Acting Conservation Commissioner Mlage Y. Kabange pledged that the authority would implement the minister's directives, ensuring the projects are completed on time and meet the required quality standards.
He also acknowledged the government's financial support, saying the investment would strengthen tourism services at the park.
Makuyuni has already recorded significant growth in visitor numbers and revenue alongside improvements to its infrastructure.
Park Commander Andrew Kishe said visitor numbers increased from 292 in the 2023/24 financial year to 3,844 in 2025/26, while revenue rose from TZS14.5 million to TZS157.9 million over the same period.
He said Tanzanians accounted for 72 percent of visitors in 2025/26, highlighting the growing contribution of domestic tourism to the park's performance.
Between July and September 2026, the park received 1,077 visitors and collected TZS44 million in revenue.
The figures point to the potential of improved infrastructure to expand domestic tourism, increase conservation-related revenue and create opportunities for employment and investment among communities surrounding the park.
However, timely completion of the ongoing projects will be critical if Makuyuni is to accommodate more visitors and translate the government's investment into sustained economic benefits.