The Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Ambassador Dr. Pindi Chana, has attributed the significant increase in wildlife populations within the country’s protected areas to the government's efforts in actively involving wildlife conservation stakeholders and the public.
This collaboration has contributed to the growth of tourism and the national economy.
Dr. Chana made these remarks today, March 3, 2025, in Dodoma during the 11th celebration of World Wildlife Day.
He highlighted that Tanzania is a global leader with the largest populations of lions, leopards, and buffaloes, and ranks third worldwide for its elephant population.
He explained that these achievements result from successfully promoting tourism policies both within the country and internationally, alongside the continuous enhancement of conservation efforts.
“Wildlife is a crucial resource for our economy, especially through tourism, which contributes over 25% of foreign exchange earnings, 17.1% of GDP, and nearly 1.6 million formal and informal jobs.
By 2024, the tourism sector has reached new heights, recording a total of 5,360,247 tourists, including 2,141,895 international visitors and 3,218,352 domestic tourists. Tourism revenue has surged to 3.9 billion US dollars,” Minister Chana stated.
He further emphasized that the efforts of President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, in promoting Tanzania’s tourism through initiatives like the “Tanzania the Royal Tour” and “Amazing Tanzania” programs, have played a crucial role in boosting interest among both local and international tourists to visit Tanzania’s wildlife reserves and protected areas.
Additionally, Minister Chana affirmed that the government, through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, continues to collaborate with wildlife conservation stakeholders to implement targeted measures aimed at protecting and improving wildlife conservation.
These efforts include combating poaching, safeguarding wildlife corridors, and ensuring sustainable conservation practices while engaging local communities through the Wildlife Management Areas (WMA).
On his part, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry in charge of Natural Resources, CP. Benedict Wakulyamba, stated that the ministry will continue to pursue strategies to conserve and protect wildlife by creating a favorable environment for tourism promotion abroad.
This includes welcoming investors, improving protected areas, enhancing the welfare of rangers and staff, and providing essential tools for effective conservation efforts.
Meanwhile, Dr. Alexander Lobora, the Director of the Wildlife Department in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, explained that the purpose of World Wildlife Day is to raise public awareness about the conservation of endangered wildlife and plants, reduce environmental degradation, and combat poaching.
“This special day provides an opportunity to acknowledge and support the efforts of wildlife rangers and conservationists, ensuring the protection of wildlife for the benefit of both current and future generations,” Dr. Lobora said.
This year’s theme for the celebration is “Wildlife and Financial Investment: Investing for People and the Planet.
” The theme aims to promote sustainable management practices and strategies for the financial utilization of wildlife resources, further strengthening Tanzania’s position as a global leader in conservation.