Published on
January 17, 2026
It is a major breakthrough for the Tanzania tourism and conservation industries as the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA) has inked five investment deals amounting to a total of $24 million with the trading company, GBP Trading Ltd. This important milestone ceremony took place on January 16, 2026, at the Julius Nyerer International Convention Centre (JNICC) in the country’s largest city, Dar es Salaam.
Investments in Key Wildlife Areas: Mpanga-Kipengere, Kijereshi, and Wami-Mbiki
The agreements focus on three important wildlife areas under TAWA’s management. Specifically, the investments will target the Mpanga-Kipengere Game Reserve and Kijereshi Game Reserve, which will each receive two contracts, along with one contract for the Wami–Mbiki Wildlife Management Area. These areas are known for their diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity, making them prime destinations for tourists seeking authentic wildlife experiences.
The investments will primarily aim to improve tourism infrastructure, including the development of accommodations, upgrading of access roads, and enhancing visitor services. These improvements are expected to increase both the volume of tourists and the amount of revenue generated, contributing to the long-term sustainability of these protected areas.
Tourism Minister Applauds Efforts to Promote Tanzania Globally
Tourism Minister Louise Upston attended the signing ceremony and commended the efforts of President Samia Suluhu Hassan in promoting Tanzania’s tourism internationally. Upston highlighted the success of the Royal Tour and the Amazing Tanzania films, which have been instrumental in increasing international awareness of the country’s tourism offerings. As a result, Tanzania has seen a notable rise in tourist arrivals, with international visitors growing from 1.5 million to 2.2 million and domestic tourists reaching 3.2 million as of November 2025.
Dr. Hassan Abbasi, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, emphasized the positive impact of these promotional campaigns, noting that tourism statistics for 2025 showed a 9% increase in visitor numbers. “The tourism sector in Tanzania remains strong and attractive, and this is the right time for investors to commit their capital,” he said.
Economic Benefits for Local Communities and National Development
The agreements not only focus on tourism infrastructure and conservation but also aim to directly benefit local communities surrounding the protected areas. Dr. Mlage Yussuf Kabange, the Acting TAWA Conservation Commissioner, outlined how these investments would generate employment opportunities and provide funding for community development projects. The goal is to ensure that the economic benefits of tourism reach local communities and contribute to their well-being.
In particular, the investments will add 190 new tourist accommodation beds and are expected to generate an average annual revenue of Sh9.2 billion (approximately $3.7 million). This increase in tourism infrastructure will provide new jobs and stimulate local economic activity in the surrounding regions, offering a boost to local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and transportation services.
Kabange also emphasized that the agreements were designed with sustainability in mind, ensuring that both conservation efforts and community development go hand in hand. By encouraging private sector involvement in tourism and conservation, TAWA is paving the way for a more integrated approach to national development.
TAWA’s Revenue Enhancement Strategy and Future Goals
As part of its broader strategy for sustainable growth, TAWA has developed a comprehensive five-year Revenue Enhancement Strategy for the period 2025-2030. This strategy aims to achieve financial self-reliance by the 2027/28 financial year by increasing annual revenue to Sh189 billion (approximately $75 million). The strategy includes measures to improve tourism infrastructure, develop new tourism products, and strengthen existing revenue sources.
This ambitious revenue target is part of Tanzania’s ongoing efforts to diversify its economy and reduce dependency on natural resources, such as minerals and agriculture. Tourism is seen as a key pillar of the country’s economic future, and investments in conservation and infrastructure are expected to play a central role in achieving these goals.
A Bright Future for Tanzania’s Tourism Industry
With a clear focus on conservation, infrastructure development, and community involvement, Tanzania is positioning itself as a leading destination for both international and domestic tourists. The recent investment agreements are a testament to the government’s commitment to growing the tourism sector while preserving the natural heritage that makes the country so special.
Tanzania’s rich wildlife, including the iconic Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, has long attracted nature lovers and safari enthusiasts. The latest investments in lesser-known areas like Mpanga-Kipengere, Kijereshi, and Wami-Mbiki represent a strategic effort to expand the tourism offerings beyond the well-known attractions, providing visitors with fresh opportunities to explore the country’s diverse ecosystems.
The success of these projects will depend on continued collaboration between the government, private investors, and local communities. By fostering a sustainable and mutually beneficial tourism model, Tanzania is on track to become a global leader in responsible tourism and conservation.
Sustainable Tourism and Long-Term Prosperity
Tanzania’s $24 million investment in tourism infrastructure and conservation efforts represents a significant step toward building a more sustainable and prosperous future for the country’s tourism sector. By focusing on both conservation and community development, the government is ensuring that tourism can contribute to the economy while also preserving the country’s natural heritage for future generations.
