The Ngorongoro Conservation Area has received an award for sustainable tourism and conservation management, with Chief Conservator Abdul-Razaq Badru calling for stronger efforts to protect the area’s natural and cultural heritage for future generations.
The award, presented by the Africa Business Forum and Awards on October 17, 2026, arrived in Tanzania on October 19 and was received at Ngorongoro.
Mr Badru said the recognition reflected the contribution of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA) and its conservation and tourism partners in safeguarding the area, which is recognised internationally for its natural and cultural heritage.
“This award reminds conservationists, tourists and citizens that we must be committed to protecting Ngorongoro’s place on the world map so that it continues to benefit present and future generations,” he said.
He urged stakeholders to treat the award as a responsibility to sustain conservation efforts rather than simply a symbol of achievement.
Mr Badru said wildlife, archaeological sites, cultural heritage, forests, vegetation, birds and the wider ecosystem required continued protection to preserve Ngorongoro’s value as a tourism destination.
He added that protecting these resources was important for attracting visitors and increasing tourism earnings, which contribute to the national economy.
The award recognises the authority’s contribution to sustainable tourism and conservation management in an area where conservation coexists with other authorised land uses.
Managing such an area presents a challenge of balancing the protection of wildlife and ecosystems with the needs associated with multiple land uses.
For Ngorongoro, maintaining that balance is essential to preserving its international standing while ensuring that tourism remains a source of economic value for Tanzania.
Mr Badru called on conservation stakeholders and the public to help protect the area so that its natural resources and cultural heritage remain intact for generations to come.