TANAPA keeps up advocacy for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) has launched the fourth season of the “Twenzetu Kileleni” campaign, encouraging Tanzanians to participate in climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

Preparations for climbing the mountain will begin from 2nd to 9th December, during which all climbers will have the opportunity to ascend the mountain.

Speaking to reporters in Dar es Salaam on Monday, TANAPA’s Assistant Commissioner for Business Development, Ms Jully Lyimo, stated the campaign is part of the celebrations for Tanganyika’s Independence Day in the context of tourism.

“We know that on 9th December every year, our country commemorates Tanganyika’s Independence Day. TANAPA has used the day to promote tourism on Mount Kilimanjaro, urging Tanzanians to climb,” she said.

She explained that the climbing initiative began in 1961, when the country gained independence, and Captain Alexander Nyirenda of the National Service led the ascent to the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro.

While addressing this, she added the activity continued under the leadership of senior National Service officials, including retired General Mrisho Sarakikya and later retired General George Waitara.

She added that since 2021, this initiative has evolved into a campaign aimed at encouraging Tanzanians to climb the mountain as a symbol of patriotism, and now the campaign aims to support President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s efforts in promoting tourism.

“This year marks the fourth season of the campaign, and we urge individuals, Tanzanians both inside and outside the country, diplomats, government officials, and private institution executives to participate and support these efforts,” she added.

TANAPA’s Chief Conservation Officer, Mapinduzi Mdesa, highlighted that the climb offers various attractions like  waterfalls, and encouraged Tanzanians to seize the opportunity to visit.

He mentioned various activities that will take place, including parachute jumps, sports tourism, football, cycling, and record-breaking feats like climbing the mountain barefoot or carrying a cooler on one’s back.

“For this commemoration, we will use three routes: Marangu, Machame, and Lemosho,” he said, and announced this year’s slogan: “Preserve Tanzania’s natural heritage, save the ice of Mount Kilimanjaro.”

Faustin Chombo from ZARA Tour Company expressed gratitude to the government for its support, noting that last year they hosted 200 guests.

He mentioned the cost of climbing the mountain is 1.5m/- per climber, which covers food and accommodation for three days, and for this year they have hoisted the national flag.