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| Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO) Executive Director, Mr Elirehema Maturo highlighting key components of the Safari Code of Conduct and Ethics document. Photo: Courtesy |
Arusha--In a bid to elevate professional standards and promote responsible tourism in Tanzania’s booming tourism industry, the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (Tato) has launched a new Safari Guide Code of Conduct and Ethics. The initiative unveiled in Arusha, aims to establish a comprehensive framework to guide safari professionals while enhancing the visitor experience and safeguarding Tanzania's rich environmental and cultural heritage.
Speaking at the launch event held at the Gran Melia Hotel during the commemoration of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere Day, Tato Vice-Chairman, Mr. Henry Kimambo, described the code as a crucial reference point for both guides and tourists. "For the document to be effective, we expect all parties—state-run conservation agencies like Tanzania National Parks (Tanapa), Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA), Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (Tawa), the travel industry, communities, and tourists—to embrace it," he urged.
The guidelines seek to maximize the benefits of the multi-billion-dollar industry while minimizing its negative impacts on Tanzania’s environment, cultural heritage, and local communities. By setting clear standards for professional conduct, the code aims to elevate the quality of safari guiding across the country.
TATO Chairman, Mr. Wilbard Chambulo, applauded the efforts of the Association’s conservation sub-committee in developing the Safari Guide Code of Conduct and Ethics. "This initiative will elevate safari guiding standards across Tanzania and strengthen our commitment to sustainable tourism and heritage preservation," he remarked. He called on all tour operators to adopt the code, emphasizing the need for guides to comply with its standards to enhance the overall quality and reputation of Tanzania’s safari industry.
The Tanzania Tour Guides Association (Ttga) has also endorsed the code. Ttga Chairman, Mr. Lembris Loipuko, described it as a revolutionary tool for ensuring sustainable wildlife safaris. "This is an invaluable tool for providing tourists with unforgettable experiences while safeguarding our natural and cultural heritage," he noted.
TATO Executive Director, Mr. Elirehema Maturo, provided further insight into the document’s key focus areas, which include professionalism, conduct, training, vehicle protocols, environmental impact, wildlife interaction, and cultural sensitivity. The code emphasizes high standards in dress, language, and behavior, as well as compliance with national laws and the prohibition of drug or alcohol use while on duty. Additionally, it prioritizes the protection of clients’ privacy and data and encourages guides to continuously pursue professional development.
One key component of the new guidelines is vehicle safety. Mr. Maturo stressed the importance of maintaining vehicle safety, adhering to speed limits, and practicing respectful driving, all of which contribute to conservation efforts and the safety of both clients and wildlife.
On environmental sustainability, the code encourages responsible waste management, the reduction of single-use plastics, and minimizing the ecological footprint of safari activities. Guides are also tasked with educating tourists on sustainable practices during their excursions.
Wildlife interaction protocols emphasize minimal disruption to natural habitats, respect for animals' comfort zones, and the discouragement of behavior that could disturb the environment.
The cultural sensitivity guidelines encourage respectful interactions with local communities, enriching the cultural experience for tourists while promoting mutual understanding and respect.
Since its establishment in 1983, Tato has grown from 35 members to over 300, representing 78.48% of Tanzania’s licensed tour operators. The Association plays a key role as the recognized representative of private tour operators to the government and continues to spearhead initiatives that uphold the country's reputation as the top safari destination in the world.
With this new code of conduct, Tato reinforces its commitment to raising professional standards in the tourism industry, ensuring a sustainable future for Tanzania's unparalleled safarix experiences.