DAR ES SALAAM: THE Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism has called on Tanzanians to prioritise furniture production over exporting raw materials to China, with the dual aim of attracting more tourists and promoting the nation’s attractions.
This message was conveyed by the Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Ambassador Pindi Chana, during a press conference in Dar es Salaam yesterday. She was hosting China’s Deputy Minister for Culture and Tourism, Li Yingchuan, who was visiting the National Museum.
Ambassador Chana noted that Tanzania and China share extensive collaborations which have both direct and indirect impacts on tourism. Key areas of cooperation include infrastructure development and trade.
Through trade partnerships, Ambassador Chana highlighted that Tanzanians could engage in the production of various wood products, such as plywood, furniture and other finished goods. This shift would not only promote Tanzania but also create revenue for individuals and the country as a whole.
Ambassador Chana further noted that the partnerships have enhanced tourism by improving transport infrastructure, particularly roads and airports. Chinese contractors, collaborating with local experts, have been instrumental in the construction and upgrading of Tanzania’s infrastructure.
She emphasised that improved infrastructure, including roads and airports, eases access to tourist destinations across Tanzania, thus strengthening the tourism sector.
Moreover, the partnership between Chinese and Tanzanian contractors has contributed to building the skills of local professionals and exposing them to new technologies within their fields.
Tanzania has also seen an increase of 10,000 Chinese tourists this year compared to last. In 2023, the country welcomed 44,400 Chinese tourists, while this year, that number has risen to 54,400—an increase of 22.5 per cent.
This growth is partly attributed to the impact of the Royal Tour documentary featuring President Samia Suluhu, as well as the film The Amazing Tanzania, which is performing well in China.
In The Amazing Tanzania, which highlights the country’s attractions and culture, President Samia Suluhu and Zanzibar’s President Hussein Mwinyi are featured.
Minister Chana added that the film is anticipated to further promote Tanzania’s tourism sector and draw more visitors from China.
The Chinese delegation included Mr Chen Lenkang, Director for African Affairs at the Bureau of International Exchange, Culture and Tourism; Mrs Xu Long, Deputy Director for African Affairs at the Bureau; and H.E. Ambassador Chen Mingjian, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Tanzania.
The Tanzanian delegation comprised the Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Arts and Culture, Hamis Mwinjuma; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Hassan Abas; Director of the National Museum, Dr Noel Lwoga; Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Sports, Methusela Ntonda; and Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, Nkoba Mabula.
