Health workers at KIA under probe

MOSHI: DEPUTY Minister for Health, Dr Godwin Mollel, has directed a comprehensive investigation into the conduct of health workers at Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) following allegations of corruption and substandard services.

Speaking during a meeting with the airport’s management, the Tanzania Tourist Board and the concerned staff, Dr Mollel strongly condemned the workers for engaging in corrupt practices and failing to follow proper service procedures.

This directive follows an incident on October 5, 2024, involving a foreign tourist from Kenya.

According to reports, a health worker demanded to see the tourist’s yellow fever vaccination card.

Despite the tourist presenting a valid card, the worker confiscated it, issued a new one and charged an unjustified fee of 50,000/-. The tourist later reported the incident to the authorities.

“Such actions tarnish Tanzania’s image, as visitors who face difficulties at the airport leave with a negative impression.

This behaviour is at odds with how our country is promoted internationally and it is unacceptable to stain the nation’s reputation,” Dr Mollel said.

The Deputy Minister demanded a full list of all health workers involved in corrupt practices, warning that those found guilty would face severe disciplinary measures, including suspension and possible reassignment to other posts.

The investigation comes at a time when Tanzania’s tourism sector is experiencing tremendous growth.

The country is steadily progressing towards its goal of attracting 5 million tourists by 2025.

According to recent data from the Bank of Tanzania (BoT), by August 2024, Tanzania had welcomed over two million international tourists, generating an unprecedented 3.5 billion US dollars in revenue.

This milestone highlights tourism as a vital contributor to the nation’s GDP, accounting for 17.2 per cent of the national GDP and 29 per cent of Zanzibar’s GDP.

In recognition of its remarkable achievements, Tanzania was once again named the World’s Leading Travel Destination by the World Travel Awards.

This prestigious accolade, awarded for the second consecutive year, reinforces Tanzania’s status as a global tourism powerhouse.

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A significant factor contributing to Tanzania’s success in tourism has been the visionary leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

Her strategic initiatives, including the globally acclaimed “Royal Tour” film, have elevated Tanzania’s international profile.

The film, produced in collaboration with renowned filmmaker Peter Greenberg, offers a captivating glimpse into Tanzania’s diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, spectacular wildlife and warm hospitality.

“The ‘Royal Tour’ film has not only captivated audiences worldwide but has also had a tangible impact on Tanzania’s tourism industry.

It has inspired countless travellers to explore our breathtaking destinations, including Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and Mount Kilimanjaro,” said Dr Mollel.

Tanzania continues to lead in tourism service exports, contributing over 3.4 billion US dollars (approximately 8.97 tri/-) in 2023, surpassing other East African nations.

During the 2nd Edition of the East African Business Council (EABC) Barometre on Trade in Services in the East African Community (EAC), launched in September 2024, EABC Acting Executive Director Adrian Njau noted Tanzania’s impressive performance in tourism growth.

“This growth highlights tourism’s vital role in generating foreign exchange, creating jobs and driving infrastructure development. Tanzania is on the right track to becoming a regional economic leader,” he said.

Tanzania also dominates the export of transport services in the East African Community, generating 2.4 billion US dollars (approximately 6.33 trillion/-) about 52 per cent of EAC transport exports.

In comparison, Kenya contributes 1.8 billion US dollars (approximately 4.74 tri/-), representing 39 per cent of total EAC exports.

This dominance is attributed to Tanzania’s strategic geographic location, serving as a gateway to eight neighbouring countries, including Burundi, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Malawi, Zambia, Mozambique, Kenya and others.

“Tanzania’s potential for exporting transport services is immense, as it is strategically positioned to serve multiple landlocked countries,” noted Mr Njau.

In 2023, international broadcaster CNN listed Tanzania among the 23 best destinations to visit, further enhancing the country’s appeal to global travellers.

Tourism currently accounts for over 17 per cent of Tanzania’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and 25 per cent of foreign earnings.

The sector’s unique natural attractions, including national parks, mountains, waterfalls and coastal regions, continue to draw visitors from all over the world.

Looking ahead, Tanzania aims to generate 6 billion US dollars (approximately 14 tri/-) from 5 million tourists by 2025, as outlined in the Third Five-Year Development Plan (FYDP III 2020/2021 – 2025/2026) and the CCM Election Manifesto of 2020-2025.

Dr Mollel reiterated that maintaining integrity and professionalism at all entry points, including airports, is crucial for sustaining the positive momentum in the tourism sector.

“We cannot allow the misconduct of a few individuals to jeopardise the efforts of an entire nation.

Health workers must uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity to ensure visitors leave with positive memories of Tanzania,” he said.

As investigations into the alleged misconduct at KIA continue, the government remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring accountability, improving service delivery and safeguarding Tanzania’s hard-earned reputation as a top global tourist destination.