MWE Correspondent
Tanzania’s government is stepping up its commitment to environmental protection and sustainable tourism. On Monday, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism presented its proposed budget of TSh 359.98 billion
(around $150 million USD) for the 2025/2026 fiscal year, seeking Parliament’s approval to fund critical wildlife conservation efforts and development projects across the country.
Presenting the budget in Dodoma during the 27th session of the 19th Parliament, Minister Dr. Pindi Chana told lawmakers that the funding will support both operational needs and infrastructure growth. About TSh 254.2 billion is allocated for recurrent expenditure—including wages and day-to-day operations—while the remaining TSh 105.7 billion is earmarked for development, split between domestic and foreign sources.
A notable portion of this budget will be directed toward ongoing efforts to protect the country’s world-renowned wildlife, especially in protected areas such as the Serengeti National Park, Ruaha, and Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
“We’ve made tremendous progress in wildlife security and biodiversity conservation,” said Dr. Chana, emphasizing that modern patrol methods, smart surveillance technology, and strong partnerships with conservation groups are bearing fruit. “The level of safety in our parks is higher now than ever before.”
She cited joint research from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute (TAWIRI), which shows Tanzania leads globally in hosting approximately 17,000 lions, 225,000 African buffalo, and 24,000 leopards—making it a key player in wildlife conservation.
Also Read; Gold Mining Halted in Congo Over Tax Dispute
The positive results are already being felt in the tourism sector. Tanzania surpassed its goal by welcoming 5.36 million tourists in 2024, generating an estimated $3.9 billion in revenue, a figure that highlights the sector’s role in national development.
To build on this momentum, the ministry has also earmarked TSh 4 billion for a comprehensive wildlife census in the upcoming fiscal year, aiming to collect more precise data to guide conservation strategies going forward.
“Tanzania is setting an example for the world in how to balance ecological protection with economic growth,” Dr. Chana added. “We want to ensure that our children inherit a country rich in natural beauty and biodiversity.”
The budget request comes amid a global call to strengthen efforts against environmental degradation and climate change. Tanzania’s approach aligns with international conservation goals such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to life on land and sustainable ecosystems.
