Tanzania clarifies Lupita Island is not sold, rather transferred to another investor

DODOMA: THE Ministry of Lands, Housing and Human Settlements Development has clarified that Lupita Island, located in Lake Tanganyika, Nkasi District in Rukwa Region, is being transferred to another investor and has not been sold, contrary to information circulating on social media following a statement by investor Tim Draper announcing his intention to sell the investment.

According to a statement issued by the ministry today, August 31, 2026, Lupita Island is among areas designated for investment under the Tanzania Investment and Special Economic Zones Authority (TISEZA) and has been leased to Firelight Safaris Ltd, a company in which Mr Tim Draper, a US citizen, is among the shareholders.

“The island is one of the areas designated for investment under the Tanzania Investment and Special Economic Zones Authority (TISEZA) and has been leased to Firelight Safaris Ltd, in which Tim Draper, a US citizen, is among the shareholders,” the statement said.

The ministry said the Land Act, Cap. 113, provides procedures through which foreign investors can acquire land for investment purposes under TISEZA.

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“TISEZA, which is the legal owner under the law, leased the area and granted a Derivative Right to Firelight Safaris Ltd for the development and operation of a tourist hotel,” the statement said.

The ministry further clarified that Firelight Safaris Ltd is a legitimate investor in the area and is legally entitled to transfer its investment to another investor, provided that the process complies with the country’s laws and procedures.

“Therefore, Firelight Safaris Ltd is a legitimate investor in the area and may transfer its investment to another investor in accordance with the laws and procedures of the country,” the ministry said.