Tanzania is seeking to attract fresh investment into its national parks and conservation areas as the Government steps up efforts to improve tourism facilities, expand visitor numbers and increase the sector's contribution to the economy.
The Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Ashatu Kijaji, held talks with World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) chairman Manfredi Lefebvre at the Hyatt Hotel in London on Sunday, with discussions focusing on investment opportunities and stronger cooperation in the tourism industry.
The meeting explored potential investments in Nyerere and Serengeti national parks, among other protected areas with distinctive tourism attractions.
The proposed investments are expected to support improvements in tourism services and infrastructure while strengthening Tanzania's competitiveness as an international destination.
Mr Lefebvre, who also owns international tourism company Abercrombie & Kent, is among investors with interests in Tanzania's tourism industry.
His international tourism operations, including Crystal Cruises, have contributed to bringing thousands of visitors to Tanzania, with destinations such as Zanzibar, Kilwa and Dar es Salaam benefiting from cruise tourism.
The engagement is part of Dr Kijaji's visit to the UK, which seeks to strengthen international partnerships, attract investors and promote Tanzania's tourism and conservation potential.
The meeting was also attended by Tanzania's High Commissioner to the UK, Mr Mbelwa Kairuki, Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority Deputy Commissioner for Conservation Joas Mwakwati and Tanzania Tourist Board Director General Thereza Mugobi.