According to Mobhare Matinyi, the chief government spokesperson and director of the Information Services in Tanzania, the number of tourists visiting the country’s 22 national parks has remained consistent over the past year. Despite the damage caused by continuous rains to the infrastructure of most of the national parks, the tourism industry has shown resilience.
Matinyi revealed that from July 2023 to February 2024, a total of 1,451,176 tourists visited the national parks, with the Serengeti National Park being the main attraction. Known for its annual migration of wildebeest and zebra, the Serengeti National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in northern Tanzania.
Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA), an organization dedicated to the sustainable conservation of protected areas, had set a target of attracting 1,387,987 tourists for the 2023/2024 period. However, exceeding expectations, the latest statistics indicate a successful achievement of this goal.
Despite the challenges posed by heavy rains damaging infrastructure in the national parks, Matinyi highlighted that the growth in tourist visits remained unaffected. He mentioned that TANAPA is actively working on repairing the damaged roads to ensure a seamless experience for tourists.
Matinyi emphasized the significance of the tourism sector in Tanzania, not only for its economic contribution but also for promoting conservation efforts. The influx of tourists provides essential funding for the preservation and protection of the national parks, which are vital ecosystems for wildlife.
With the Serengeti National Park being a key attraction, Matinyi praised the efforts of TANAPA in maintaining the park’s appeal despite the challenges posed by the weather. The iconic migration of wildebeest and zebra continues to draw visitors from around the world, showcasing Tanzania’s rich biodiversity.
The success in surpassing the tourism target for the year reflects positively on Tanzania’s ability to attract visitors despite external factors. Matinyi expressed optimism that the trend of steady growth in tourist visits would continue, contributing to the country’s overall economic development.
As the authorities work on repairing the infrastructure damaged by the rains, Matinyi assured that measures are in place to ensure the safety and convenience of tourists exploring the national parks. The government remains committed to enhancing the tourism experience in Tanzania.
Matinyi acknowledged the efforts of tour operators, guides, and other stakeholders in the tourism industry for their role in maintaining the appeal of Tanzania’s national parks. Their dedication to providing memorable experiences for visitors contributes to the positive reputation of the country as a premier safari destination.
With ongoing investments in infrastructure development and conservation initiatives, Tanzania aims to further boost its tourism sector and attract even more visitors in the coming years. Matinyi emphasized the importance of sustainable tourism practices to ensure the long-term viability of the country’s natural resources.
In conclusion, despite facing challenges from adverse weather conditions, Tanzania’s national parks have continued to attract a significant number of tourists, exceeding expectations. The government’s commitment to conservation and tourism infrastructure maintenance plays a crucial role in promoting the country as a top travel destination.
