Tanzania is stepping up preparations to protect tourist destinations from disruptions caused by heavy rains, with Natural Resources and Tourism Minister Ashatu Kijaji directing conservation authorities to ensure roads in national parks and other attractions remain accessible.
The directive comes as the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) forecasts heavy rainfall, raising concerns about possible disruptions to tourism activities, visitor safety and access to key destinations.
Dr Kijaji issued the directive on October 12, 2026, after reviewing a preparedness report from the ministry and its institutions during a meeting in Dodoma.
She stressed the need for the ministry, its agencies and conservation authorities to prepare adequately to ensure that heavy rains do not interrupt tourism operations.
Maintaining passable roads in national parks and other tourist attractions is among the key priorities, as poor road conditions during heavy rains can affect visitors’ movement and the delivery of tourism services.
Dr Kijaji said preparations should prioritise the safety of tourists and ensure continuity of services despite challenging weather conditions.
The directive puts the readiness of tourism infrastructure at the centre of efforts to minimise the impact of heavy rainfall on the sector, which depends on reliable access to wildlife parks and other attractions.
The ministry and its institutions are expected to strengthen preparedness measures to reduce weather-related disruptions and help keep tourist destinations accessible during the rainy season.
Effective implementation will be critical in protecting visitors, supporting tourism operators and maintaining the reliability of Tanzania’s tourism services during periods of heavy rainfall.