Tanzania orders TANAPA to bolster Tarangire Park’s infrastructure ahead of El Niño rains
TARANGIRE: THE Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, Nkoba Mabula, has directed the management of Tarangire National Park, in collaboration with the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) headquarters, to continue assessing and improving communication infrastructure and training officers and rangers in rescue units as part of preparations for El Niño rains and their potential impacts.
Speaking during a visit to Tarangire National Park, Mabula said the preparedness measures were designed to safeguard conservation and tourism activities from major disruptions when the rains begin.
He emphasised the importance of strengthening emergency response capacity to ensure that the park’s operations continue while minimising the effects of adverse weather conditions.
For his part, Deputy Conservation Commissioner responsible for the Conservation and Business Development Directorate, Izumbe Msindai, said all national parks had taken early measures to prepare for the anticipated rains.
He called on the Ministry to continue supporting TANAPA’s efforts to protect tourism revenue and maintain a safe and welcoming environment for both domestic and international visitors.
Meanwhile, Tarangire National Park Chief Park Warden, Assistant Conservation Commissioner Dr Tutindaga George, said the park had repaired six pieces of road maintenance and rescue equipment.
He added that the park had also established a rapid-response emergency team in collaboration with the Babati District Commissioner’s Office, following resolutions reached at a meeting held on October 6, 2026.
Dr Tutindaga further explained that the park, working with tourism stakeholders, particularly accommodation providers, had improved drainage systems along tourist roads. The measures included light grading, filling potholes and excavating drainage channels to prevent water from accumulating on the roads.
During the visit, Mabula inspected upgraded infrastructure, road maintenance and rescue equipment, Kuro Airstrip, visitor reception gates, permit-issuing operations and emergency communication systems.
The measures are intended to strengthen the park’s resilience to heavy rainfall, protect conservation infrastructure and ensure continued access for tourists during the rainy season.
