The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Lands, Natural Resources and Tourism has commended the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA) for improving relations with communities living within the conservation area, urging it to maintain close cooperation with residents and continue improving social services.
The committee said stronger cooperation between the authority and local communities was essential to promoting conservation while addressing the needs and welfare of people living in Ngorongoro.
Speaking on behalf of committee members, Chairperson Timotheo Mnzava said the committee was pleased with the progress made in strengthening relations between residents and the authority, particularly through efforts to improve access to social services.
He said the developments offered hope for a more positive relationship between conservation management and communities, emphasising the importance of sustaining the progress and ensuring residents continue to benefit from initiatives undertaken in the area.
The committee also praised the NCAA for introducing institutional reforms, adopting modern technology, improving road infrastructure and promoting Ngorongoro as a tourism destination through digital platforms targeting national and international audiences.
Briefing the committee on the authority's performance, Conservation Commissioner Abdul-Razaq Badru said the NCAA was working to improve road connectivity within the conservation area.
He cited the ongoing construction of the road from Loduare Gate to Golini, noting that work on the first 29.5-kilometre section, from Loduare to Seneto, was in progress.
Improved roads are expected to facilitate movement within the area, support tourism activities and improve access for communities and other road users.
Badru also highlighted the introduction of modern visitor access systems, which have helped reduce the time tourists spend entering and leaving the conservation area.
The improvements are intended to make visits more convenient while enhancing the efficiency of conservation area operations.
Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Ashatu Kijaji, thanked the committee for its guidance, recommendations and oversight of the ministry and its institutions.
She acknowledged the committee's contribution to strengthening institutional performance and supporting the implementation of government policies in the natural resources and tourism sectors.
The committee's commendation highlights the importance of ensuring that conservation and tourism development go hand in hand with community welfare.
Sustained cooperation, improved infrastructure and accessible social services remain important in building trust between the NCAA and residents while supporting the long-term protection of Ngorongoro's unique natural heritage.