Tanzania among Africa’s top wildlife havens

ARUSHA: TANZANIA is home to some of Africa’s biggest wildlife populations, with the latest national census placing the country among the continent’s leading destinations for elephants, buffaloes and other iconic species.

The 2024/25 National Wildlife Census recorded 28 large wildlife species across the country’s major ecosystems, highlighting the scale of Tanzania’s wildlife resources and the importance of continued protection of its natural habitats.

The census shows Tanzania has 66,737 elephants, making it the third-largest elephant population in Africa. The country also recorded 322 black and white rhinos, ranking fourth on the continent.

The findings were released in Arusha yesterday by the Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism Ashatu Kijaji on behalf of President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

Dr Kijaji said the latest figures provide important data for planning and managing Tanzania’s wildlife resources while supporting efforts to protect species and their habitats.

The census also recorded more than 321,437 buffaloes, the highest population in Africa, and more than 17,200 lions, further underlining Tanzania’s position as a major wildlife stronghold.

ALSO READ: Tanzania provides strategic training to 92 village officers to manage destructive wildlife

Other species recorded during the exercise include giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, cheetahs, leopards, hippos, and various antelope species found across different conservation areas.

Dr Kijaji said the government would use the findings to strengthen wildlife management and address emerging challenges affecting some species, including giraffes.

She said accurate wildlife data remains essential for guiding conservation decisions, improving resource management, and supporting the tourism industry, which relies heavily on Tanzania’s natural attractions.

The government said the census results reflect the contribution of conservation efforts involving wildlife authorities, researchers, and other partners working to protect the country’s wildlife heritage.