Tanzania completes the 2nd national wildlife census using domestic funding for the first time  

DODOMA: THE Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism has announced the successful completion of Tanzania’s second national wildlife census using domestic funding for the first time, a move described as a demonstration of the government’s capacity and commitment to financing strategic conservation activities.

The remarks were made on May 15, 2026 by the Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Ashatu Kijaji, while presenting the ministry’s budget speech in Parliament in Dodoma.

Dr Kijaji said the census, conducted every 10 years, forms part of a national programme aimed at identifying the presence, population, distribution and trends of wildlife species across different parts of the country.

She noted that the census also sought to identify risk indicators that could affect the wellbeing of wildlife and their habitats by comparing the findings with results from the previous census.

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According to the minister, the results indicate a positive trend in the growth and wellbeing of wildlife populations across various ecosystems, reflecting the success of government efforts in strengthening sustainable conservation of wildlife resources.

She added that the data collected through the census will help guide effective management of wildlife resources, including sustainable hunting practices, identification and protection of endangered species, as well as the development of stronger strategies to address the impact of human activities on ecosystems.

Dr Kijaji further said the statistics will support tourism infrastructure investment planning, increase government revenue and create employment and business opportunities for communities living near national parks and conservation areas.