Tanzania targets 8 million tourists annually by 2030

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA has set an ambitious target of attracting eight million tourists annually by 2030, up from the over five million visitors recorded in 2025, driven by enhanced tourism services and strategic promotional efforts.

Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Pindi Chana, announced the goal yesterday during Ngorongoro Day celebrations at the 49th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF) closed in the city yesterday.

“In recent years, we’ve seen steady growth in both domestic and international visitors to our national parks,” Dr Chana said.

“This has been largely fueled by targeted promotional campaigns such as The Royal Tour and Amazing Tanzania.”

She noted that national parks have become especially popular during public holidays, attracting individuals, families, corporate groups and even choirs, contributing significantly to the increase in tourism numbers.

“We have already surpassed five million tourists and are now working towards reaching eight million by 2030. This target is in line with the newly launched Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) 2025-2030 Election Manifesto and we believe it is achievable,” she added.

The new CCM party manifesto, outlining national development priorities for 2025–2030, places a strong focus on tourism as a key driver of economic growth.

Dr Chana stressed that the government is committed to ensuring that tourism benefits all stakeholders across the value chain, contributing broadly to national development.

Speaking on Ngorongoro Day, the minister described it as a major step in promoting domestic tourism and rallying public support for conservation efforts.

“We are proud to dedicate a day to Ngorongoro here at the trade fair. It not only highlights the Conservation Area but also helps increase visitor numbers and tourism revenue,” she said.

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Dr Chana revealed that the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA) generated 269.9bn/- in revenue during the 2024/2025 financial year, reflecting the sector’s immense potential.

“This strong performance demonstrates the impact of our ongoing promotion campaigns. As a ministry, we will continue to support initiatives that drive growth in the sector,” she said.

Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TanTrade) Director General, Ms Latifa Khamis, echoed these sentiments, noting that conservation has become a shared national priority.

She said that protected areas like Ngorongoro are now central to both tourism and Tanzanian identity.

“Ngorongoro remains a top attraction for both local and international tourists due to its unique model of human-wildlife coexistence,” Ms Khamis said.

“This day should inspire greater global recognition of Ngorongoro, while encouraging local communities to play a role in protecting our natural heritage.”

NCAA Senior Assistant Commissioner, Ms Mariam Kobelo, reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to safeguarding Ngorongoro’s cultural and historical integrity, in accordance with conservation laws.

“We are dedicated to preserving the rich traditions and history of the area while promoting sustainable tourism practices,” she said.

Tourism remains a vital pillar of Tanzania’s economy, contributing significantly to GDP, employment and foreign exchange earnings.

The government’s current strategy seeks to further unlock the sector’s potential through innovation, investment and inclusive development.

According to the Bank of Tanzania’s latest Monthly Economic Review, tourism revenues totalled 3.92 billion US dollars (about 10.16tri/-) in the year ending May 2025, up from 3.63 billion US dollars (about 9.4tri/-) the previous year.

This growth accounts for more than half (55.1 per cent) of all service-related income highlights the sector’s increasing economic impact.