TANZANIA: I HAD the privilege of attending a memorable event recently a handing-over ceremony where Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) was presented with new vehicles and road construction equipment as part of an emergency programme aimed at strengthening nature conservation and mitigating the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the tourism sector.
The Tanzanian government received five trucks designed to support the mounting conservation operations of game rangers, tackle poaching and provide critical infrastructure such as roads and dams to sustain wildlife. It was a moment that felt both historic and hopeful.
What truly struck me during the event, however, was the passionate speech delivered by the Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Pindi Chana, which brought to life the words of the late President Julius Kambarage Nyerere, whose vision for conservation is immortalised in the Arusha Manifesto.
Dr Chana quoted Mwalimu Nyerere, emphasising that the survival of wildlife is not only a matter of local importance but is crucial for Africa and the entire world.
Nyerere once said, “The survival of our wildlife is a matter of grave concern to all of us in Africa. These wild creatures, amid the wild places they inhabit, are not only important as a source of wonder and inspiration but are an integral part of our natural resources and of our future livelihood and wellbeing.”
It was a reminder of just how deeply conservation is embedded in Tanzania’s national identity. Mwalimu’s words, spoken on September 12, 1961, less than three months before Tanzania’s Independence, declared the nation’s solemn duty to preserve its wildlife, ensuring that future generations would inherit a rich and vibrant natural heritage. But Nyerere’s message was not just idealistic; it came with a practical warning.
He noted that successful wildlife conservation requires specialist knowledge, trained manpower and, of course, funding.
“The conservation of wildlife and wild places calls for specialist knowledge, trained manpower and money and we look to other nations to cooperate with us in this important task – the success or failure of which, not only affects the continent of Africa, but the rest of the world.”
It’s been more than six decades since the signing of the Arusha Manifesto and those words resonate today as strongly as ever. The manifesto’s core principles continue to guide Tanzania’s national and international conservation efforts. And as Dr Chana pointed out, it’s the open arms policy of inviting global cooperation in the fight to protect our wildlife that has truly helped cement Tanzania’s leadership in conservation.
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The country’s strong partnership with Germany, dating back to the early 1960s, is a perfect example of this cooperation. Through the German development bank KfW, which was founded in the aftermath of World War II, Germany has been a steadfast partner in supporting Tanzania’s conservation and tourism initiatives. In fact, Germany has disbursed over 320bn/- for biodiversity and tourism projects in national parks like Serengeti, Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve), Katavi and Mahale.
This partnership has been crucial in providing the tools necessary for sustainable tourism and environmental protection. Dr Chana lauded the current government of President Samia Suluhu Hassan for continuing to strengthen these international relationships, which have bolstered Tanzania’s tourism industry and helped protect its rich biodiversity.
The proof of this success is evident: tourism arrivals are on the rise and Tanzania has earned a well-deserved reputation for preventing the erosion of its natural resources. However, the increasing and more sophisticated human activities around conserved areas present a growing challenge. The need for modern tools to support TANAPA and the Tanzania Wildlife Authority (TAWA) is now more pressing than ever.
From boats to aircraft, these tools are essential for monitoring game movements, controlling poaching and minimising human-wildlife conflicts, particularly in residential areas.
TANAPA faces another significant challenge in training competent rangers who can safeguard Tanzania’s natural resources, ensuring that future generations inherit a thriving wildlife population. Dr Chana highlighted the role of Mweka Wildlife College, which has been instrumental in training a new generation of conservationists and educators, helping to instil an appreciation for nature from an early age.
Indeed, the importance of involving the public in conservation efforts cannot be overstated. Historically, even primary and secondary school children were actively involved in conservation, with school songs naming all the national parks.
This collective involvement helped foster a sense of ownership and responsibility for the nation’s natural heritage. Yet, despite these efforts, there are still challenges, particularly with certain politicians who attempt to pit the public against the government.
These individuals risk undermining the solid foundations of Tanzania’s conservation policies. It’s critical that all Tanzanians remain united in the belief that conservation is a shared responsibility, not just the duty of a few. As of now, tourism contributes about 17 per cent to Tanzania’s GDP and brings in more than USD 3 million in foreign exchange, a figure that continues to grow.
The government’s goal is to attract more than five million tourists, further boosting the sector’s contribution to national economic growth. This is no small feat, but it’s a target within reach if conservation and tourism are treated as complementary forces for economic and environmental prosperity.
However, balancing conservation with the needs of local communities remains a delicate task. There have been increasing complaints from residents about wild animals trespassing into residential areas, damaging crops and even causing loss of life.
In response, some communities, such as those in Ipona Village, have found innovative ways to coexist peacefully with wildlife, turning challenges into opportunities for harmonious living. Dr Chana stressed that, from a tourism perspective, two issues stand out: conservation and promotion.
While conservation is the responsibility of every Tanzanian, it is through protecting and nurturing these natural resources that the full potential of the country’s tourism sector can be realised. By conserving the environment, Tanzania can secure its future as one of the world’s premier eco-tourism destinations.
It’s clear that Tanzania’s conservation efforts are rooted in a deep and enduring commitment to the environment, both locally and globally. As we move forward, it’s vital that both the government and the public continue to work hand-in-hand, ensuring that the country’s natural resources are preserved for future generations.
The Arusha Manifesto remains a guiding light and it’s a legacy that deserves our unwavering dedication. So, while we all enjoy Tanzania’s breathtaking natural beauty, from the peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro to the plains of the Serengeti, let’s remember that conservation isn’t just a policy – it’s a pledge.
A pledge to safeguard the wonders of today, so our children and grandchildren can experience them too.
