MWE Correspondent
Tanzania is setting its sights high. By the year 2030, the country aims to welcome eight million tourists annually, a major leap from the over five million visitors recorded in 2025.
The ambitious target was announced by Dr. Pindi Chana, the Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, during the Ngorongoro Day celebrations held at the 49th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF).
“Tourism has grown steadily in recent years,” Dr. Chana said, “thanks to focused promotional efforts like The Royal Tour and Amazing Tanzania, which have showcased our country’s stunning landscapes and rich culture to the world.”
Campaigns such as The Royal Tour, which featured President Samia Suluhu Hassan, have played a key role in elevating Tanzania’s profile globally. Through documentaries and digital platforms, these campaigns highlight Tanzania’s breathtaking attractions—from the iconic Serengeti National Park and the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, to the pristine beaches of Zanzibar and the ecological wonder of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Dr. Chana added that public holidays are increasingly becoming peak tourism periods, with more local groups—including families, youth choirs, and corporate teams—visiting national parks. This reflects the rise in domestic tourism, which accounted for over 3.2 million visitors in 2024, according to official government data.
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So far, the country has generated nearly USD $4 billion in tourism revenue—a step toward its broader goal of reaching USD $6 billion by the end of 2025. These efforts align with the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) 2025–2030 Election Manifesto, which positions tourism as a critical sector in boosting economic growth, foreign exchange, and employment.
To sustain this momentum, the government is prioritizing infrastructure upgrades, expanding hospitality services, and enhancing training for tour guides. The Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) is also working to improve roads, visitor facilities, and digital booking systems to meet growing demand.
According to tourism stakeholders, early bookings have surged, and major attractions like the Serengeti are already reporting near-full occupancy during peak seasons. Efforts are underway to improve ecotourism and sustainable travel, ensuring that tourism not only generates income but also protects Tanzania’s unique biodiversity.
“This isn’t just about hitting numbers,” Dr. Chana emphasized. “It’s about building a tourism industry that benefits our communities, preserves our environment, and shares our story with the world.”
