Tourism conservationists are being encouraged to use new technology and creative ideas to promote tourist attractions more effectively.
This message was shared by Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, Mr. Nkoba Mabula, during a training session for conservationists in Arusha.
The event, organized by the Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS), aimed to improve the management of forest reserves and heritage sites as part of the government’s plan to boost tourism.
Mr. Mabula highlighted the importance of modern tools like social media, websites, and mobile apps to attract more tourists and make it easier for them to plan trips. He urged conservationists to use these tools to showcase Tanzania’s attractions, such as wildlife parks, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the Ngorongoro Crater. He emphasized the need to continuously improve these sites to help the government reach its goal of 5 million tourists and $6 billion in revenue by 2025.
He also pointed out that forest tourism remains underdeveloped and needs more attention. The tourism sector is a key contributor to Tanzania’s economy, making up 17.2% of GDP in 2023. Tourist numbers grew by 18%, from 1.5 million in 2019 to 1.8 million in 2023.
Mr. Mabula praised the training session organizers and encouraged participants to apply their new knowledge to their work. He also reaffirmed the government’s support for TFS in promoting forest and heritage tourism.
TFS Conservation Commissioner, Prof. Dos Santos Silayo, said the government is working with partners to grow the sector by improving infrastructure, boosting digital marketing, and introducing new activities like sports and event tourism. Dr. Thereza Mugobi, Director of the Tourism Department, applauded conservationists for their innovative efforts, which have increased tourist numbers and revenue.
