The tourism and art sectors in Tanzania are poised for a significant economic boost this October following the announcement of the upcoming Arts and Crafts Festival. This major event is specifically designed to stimulate the creative economy and showcase the country’s unique cultural heritage. Through this strategic platform, local artisans will gain exclusive opportunities to access new commercial markets both domestically and internationally.

Preparations for the festival are being spearheaded by the Tanzania International Tourism Festival (TITF) in collaboration with the Tanzania Federation of Crafts and Arts (TASFA). This strategic partnership aims to bring together sculptors, painters, fashion designers, jewelers, and potters from various regions across the country. This collective gathering of artisans will create a unified force to showcase the rich tapestry of Tanzania’s cultural legacy.

The Director of TITF, Ibrahim Jamal, officially announced the event during a press briefing held at the Grand Melia Hotel in Arusha. In his remarks, Jamal emphasized that the festival is built on a vision to integrate the art and tourism sectors. The primary goal of this strategy is to add tangible value to local creative works and provide sustainable economic opportunities for artists.

Beyond conventional product exhibitions, the festival will feature specialized capacity-building sessions driven by professional training. Attending artists will receive expert guidance on how to enhance the value and quality of their products to compete effectively in the global marketplace. Additionally, they will be trained on intellectual property rights protection and modern marketing strategies to penetrate foreign markets via the tourism sector.

Jamal added that the festival will serve as a dynamic, live platform where artisans can display and sell their products on the spot. This will provide an excellent opportunity for them to exchange experiences, learn innovative production techniques, and strengthen the creative economy value chain. The event is highly anticipated to inspire a renewed commitment to high-quality, productive manufacturing among local creators.

The festival itinerary is set to be highly engaging, featuring live art production demonstrations. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience professional workshops, business training, strategic networking sessions, and traditional music and dance performances. These business-to-business (B2B) meetings will connect artists directly with high-profile buyers and investors from diverse corporate sectors.

Furthermore, Joseph Rumanyika from TITF noted that the platform is expected to attract key stakeholders in art, tourism, and culture from both within Tanzania and abroad. 

The presence of international participants will position this festival as a vital bridge for promoting Tanzania globally through its unique handicrafts. Rumanyika believes that artistic heritage plays a pivotal role in boosting the country's cultural tourism brand.

Representing the artist community, Simon Venance commended the initiative, stating that the festival continues to build essential business and entrepreneurial skills among local creators. 

He concluded by highlighting that art is a reliable source of employment and income, and this festival will help them secure new markets to elevate their livelihoods. Venance firmly believes that creative works will carry the true identity and economic progress of Tanzanian artisans.

ARUSHA, Tanzania – Tanzanian long-distance running star and international athletics icon Alphonce Simbu has used the Karibu-KiliFair tourism exhibition in Arusha to promote Mount Kilimanjaro and Tanzania’s tourism attractions by participating in the exciting Summit Run Challenge.

The event, held at the Prisons Grounds in Arusha, attracted hundreds of participants and visitors who gathered to witness Simbu take part in the challenge alongside Karibu-KiliFair Director Tom Kunkler and other tourism stakeholders.

Organized by Karibu-KiliFair in partnership with leading tour operator Zara Tanzania Adventures, the challenge forms part of efforts to promote sports tourism and create greater awareness of Tanzania’s world-famous attractions, particularly Mount Kilimanjaro.

Speaking during the event, Zara Tanzania Adventures Marketing Officer Nancy Ngotea praised the Summit Run Challenge, describing it as an innovative initiative that successfully combines sports and tourism promotion.

She said the challenge has attracted significant interest from both local and international visitors while providing an effective platform to showcase Mount Kilimanjaro and Tanzania’s tourism potential to the world.

Ngotea also commended the government's efforts under President Samia Suluhu Hassan in strengthening tourism promotion both domestically and internationally, noting that the sector continues to record positive growth.

The challenge has generated considerable excitement throughout the Karibu-KiliFair exhibition, with many visitors competing to conquer a replica Mount Kilimanjaro installation. Winners are expected to be announced on June 7, the final day of the exhibition.

Participants are competing for attractive cash prizes, including TSh 1 million for the winner, TSh 500,000 for second place and TSh 250,000 for third place.

The event also provided Simbu with an opportunity to officially introduce his new campaign, “Run with Simbu,” which forms part of his preparations for the prestigious TCS Sydney Marathon scheduled for August 30, 2026, in Australia.

Addressing participants and visitors, Simbu emphasized the importance of using sports as a tool to market Tanzania internationally.

“Sports deliver messages to the world faster than almost anything else. When sports and tourism work together, they become a powerful force in promoting our country's attractions globally,” he said.

Simbu also took the opportunity to remind international audiences that Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain, is located in Tanzania, urging people around the world to visit the country and experience its unique tourism attractions.

The athlete noted that his international achievements have helped raise awareness about Tanzania, with many people abroad becoming interested in learning more about the country after following his sporting career.

Speaking about his preparations for the Sydney Marathon, Simbu said elite marathon training requires substantial support and teamwork. He currently trains in Arusha with a group of between 10 and 15 athletes who assist him as pacemakers during training sessions along the Namanga Road corridor to Oldonyosambu.

“You cannot achieve great success alone. Marathon running requires teamwork and support from many people,” he said.

Through the upcoming “Run with Simbu” campaign, the athlete is calling on Tanzanians, companies and development partners to support athletics development and help nurture the next generation of talented runners.

The Summit Run Challenge has emerged as one of the major highlights of this year’s Karibu-KiliFair, demonstrating how sports and tourism can work together to enhance Tanzania’s visibility and attract more visitors from around the world.

 

The Tanzanian government has continued to invest heavily in tourism infrastructure development as part of broader efforts to strengthen the sector’s competitiveness and increase its contribution to the national economy.

Speaking in Parliament in Dodoma on May 15, 2026, the Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Ashatu Kijaji said the government has made major progress in improving access and services within key tourist destinations across the country.

While presenting the ministry’s revenue and expenditure estimates for the 2026/27 financial year, Dr Kijaji revealed that the government completed the construction of three airstrips in Nyerere National Park and Ruaha National Park. She added that construction of the Mikumi Airstrip is expected to be completed by October 2026.

The minister further explained that eight additional airstrips located in Mikumi, Ruaha, Nyerere and Serengeti National Park have been rehabilitated to improve transportation services for tourists visiting the parks.

According to Dr Kijaji, the government has also constructed and rehabilitated 3,757.92 kilometers of roads and 523.14 kilometers of walking trails in protected areas, making it easier for visitors to access tourist attractions.

Tourism infrastructure has also been strengthened through the construction of six visitor rest areas and nine entry gates in Nyerere, Mikumi and Ruaha national parks.

In addition, tourism centers have been established in the forests of Mount Meru Forest Reserve, Vikindu, Mwambesi, Pindiro, Mount Rungwe and Lake Duluti. One tourist camp has also been constructed in the Kilombero Nature Forest Reserve.

Dr Kijaji said the investments are already delivering positive results, including improved accessibility to tourist attractions, enhanced visitor experiences, and increased employment and business opportunities for communities living near conservation areas.

She noted that the improvements have also contributed to higher government revenue and continued growth of the tourism industry.

Highlighting the impact of the improvements in Tanzania’s Southern Circuit, the minister said the number of tourists increased from 197,402 to 205,520 between July 2025 and April 2026. During the same period, revenue rose from 24.6bn/- to 27.7bn/-.

The minister said the achievements demonstrate the government’s commitment to continue improving tourism infrastructure in order to strengthen Tanzania’s position in the global tourism market, stimulate economic growth and improve the livelihoods of citizens.

Kutoka Pemba, Unguja, Mji mkongwe, Bagamoyo, Kondoa, Magofu ya kilwa, paa la mlima kilimanjaro na maeneo mengine ya Tanzania, wadau wa urithi wa dunia wamekutana katika Makumbusho ya Urithi Geopark Karatu Mkoani Arusha yanayosimamiwa na Mamlaka ya Hifadhi ya Ngorongoro  kwa lengo la kuadhimisha   Urithi wa Dunia Afrika yaliyoanza leo tarehe 04/05/2026 hadi tarehe 05/05/2026.

Wakiwa katika jengo la makumbusho ya Urithi Geopark Wadau hao wameelezwa jinsi Ngorongoro ilivyo ni utajiri wa urithi wa dunia kutokana na uumbwaji wake uliotokana na mlipuko wa volcano zaidi ya miaka milioni mbili iliyopita na kutengeneza kasoko iliyokusanya asili, uhai wa binadamu, mifumo ya ikolojia, na ustawi wa viumbe mbalimbali.

Katika  taarifa yake kwa vyombo vya habari Kamishna wa Uhifadhi wa Mamlaka ya Hifadhi ya Ngorongoro, Abdul-Razaq Badru amewashukuru wadau wote hasa Shirika la Umoja wa Mataifa la  Elimu, Sayansi na Utamaduni (UNESCO)   kwa kuipa fursa Ngorongoro kuandaa na kuwa mwenyeji wa maadhimisho hayo kwa mwaka huu.

Wadau wa urithi wa duania wakiwa katika Makumbusho ya Urithi Geopark walipata fursa ya kuelezewa kuhusu uthibitisho wa wasomi unaoeleza wazi historia ya chimbuko la binadamu wa kale aliyepatikana katika bonde la olduvai  takribani milioni  2 iliyopita na ushahidi wa Nyanyo za binadamu wa kale  katika eneo la Laetoli takribani miaka  3.6 iliyopiTa ambapo binadamu hao walitembea kwa miguu miwili.

Taasisi zinazoshiriki maadhimisho hayo ambazo zinasimamia maeneo ya urithi wa dunia ni pamoja na Mamlaka ya Hifadhi ya Eneo la Ngorongoro (NCAA), Shirika la hifadhi za Taifa Tanzania (TANAPA) Mamlaka ya Uzimamizi wa Wanyamapori (TAWA), Wakala wa Huduma za misitu Tanzania (TFS), pamoja na wawakilishi wa maeneo ya urithi wa dunia kutoka Zanzibar.

 

When we think of a Tanzanian safari, we picture the majestic Serengeti or the Great Migration from a bird’s-eye view. But for Serengeti Balloon Safaris, the secret to a world-class experience isn't just the scenery—it’s the people.

With over 35 years of soaring above the clouds, this award-winning pioneer is now launching a different kind of mission: The Trailblazers Guide Apprenticeship Program 2026.

 Closing the Gap: From Theory to the Field

Tanzania’s tourism is booming, contributing roughly 17% to the country’s GDP. However, a major challenge persists: many graduates leave school with diplomas but lack the practical, "deployable" skills the industry demands.

Managing Director John Corse puts it simply: “Investing in people is just as critical as delivering exceptional guest experiences.”

What is the Trailblazers Program?

Launched in 2025, this isn't your average internship. It is a rigorous, fully-funded intensive course followed by structured mentorship. The program has already grown from 22 to 28 participants, including a focused effort to bring more women into this traditionally male-dominated field.

The Training Toolkit includes:

* Off-Road Mastery: Defensive and off-road driving.

* Safety First: Wilderness first aid and strict safety protocols.

* Technical Savvy: Vehicle maintenance and TANAPA regulations.

* The "Luxury" Touch: High-end customer service for global travelers.

 Real Impact, Real Careers

For participants like Shamsila Kiula, the change is immediate. “I feel fully competent to work anywhere,” he shares. “I have received far more than classroom training.”

The top 10 trainees from the group secure a two-year apprenticeship as transfer drivers, while others are supported in finding roles across the wider tourism sector.

The Big Picture

In a region where only 39% of graduates are considered "job-ready," Serengeti Balloon Safaris is stepping up where it matters most. By bridging the gap between education and employment, they aren't just training staff—they are safeguarding the long-term sustainability of Tanzania as a premium destination.

The lesson is clear: To stay competitive on the global stage, we must invest in human capital. The scenery brings them here, but the service brings them back.

SAME, TANZANIA – Former Prime Minister John Samuel Malecela has called on Tanzanians to prioritize the tourism sector, describing it as a vital engine for foreign exchange earnings and national economic growth.

Speaking during the official opening of the third edition of the Same Utalii Festival in Same District, Malecela noted that many nations globally sustain their economies primarily through tourism. He emphasized that for Tanzania to fully realize this potential, citizens must maintain peace and uphold the spirit of hospitality.

“In tourism, it is like having a flock of ten thousand pigeons gathered in one spot; if a single stone is thrown, they all scatter. Therefore, the foundation of our tourism must be the peace of our country,” Malecela remarked.

The veteran statesman, who served in government for over 40 years, highly commended the Same District Commissioner (DC), Kasilda Mgeni, for her innovation in establishing the festival. He admitted that throughout his long career, he had rarely seen a district-level initiative successfully attract such a massive and diverse audience to promote local attractions.

District Commissioner Kasilda Mgeni reported that the festival, which debuted in 2023, has already yielded significant results. According to DC Mgeni, tourist arrivals at Mkomazi National Park have surged from 4,000 to 11,000 annually. Similarly, visitors to the Chome–Shengena Nature Forest Reserve increased from 72 to 200 per year.

Despite the success, the DC urged the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism to improve infrastructure leading to key attractions. She also proposed specialized training for "bodaboda" (motorcycle taxi) operators to empower them to act as professional local guides for visiting tourists.

Representing the central government, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, Mloba Mabula, pledged continued collaboration with the Same District. He stated that the ministry aims to use Same as a model for other districts in promoting grassroots tourism across the country.

Would you like to focus the social media captions for this story on the economic growth figures or Malecela’s "pigeon" peace analogy?

 

Swahili wisdom says 'tembea uone' -walk and you will see, and that no journey is ever wasted. Near the Olduvai Gorge, within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, there is a wonder that proves this truth: the Shifting Sands.

Beside the cradle of human history, a crescent-shaped dune of black sand slowly journeys across the land. Each year, thousands of visitors come not to collect the elusive black sand, but to stand in awe of it. This sand, darkened by iron minerals and volcanic ash from eruptions of Mount Oldoinyo Lengai, is alive with movement.

Driven by the wind, the dune advances quietly, about 15 to 29 metres each year, rising nearly five metres high and stretching a hundred metres wide. It moves without hurry, without noise, teaching patience to those who stop to watch.

These are the wonders of Ngorongoro. If you wish to understand them, walk and see, for the pride of the eyes is in seeing, and that pride never empties the shop.

 

Vice President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Philip Mpango, has emphasized the importance of prioritizing environmental conservation and addressing climate change in the development and promotion of tourism, warning that ecological disruption poses a significant threat to the sustainability of tourism activities.

Speaking during the inauguration of the Ngorongoro–Lengai Geoheritage Museum in Karatu, Arusha Region, Dr. Mpango noted that environmental degradation has led to increasing human-wildlife conflicts, resulting in fatalities and damage to homes and crops.

He urged the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, through the Board of Directors and Management of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA), to ensure proper maintenance and use of the museum’s infrastructure. "It is important to establish a reliable mechanism that enables regular repair and maintenance of the systems and facilities within this building," he said.

The Vice President also called on NCAA to actively involve surrounding communities in the conservation of the area, including the preservation of their indigenous cultures and traditions. He further encouraged Tanzanians to develop a culture of visiting national heritage and historical sites to learn and appreciate the country's vast natural and cultural wealth.

He emphasized the importance of training staff who will serve at the museum, stating, "The Ministry, in collaboration with its institutions such as the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority, must ensure that appropriate training is provided to staff so that they can efficiently operate the available systems and deliver quality services." He added that where possible, such training should include tourism stakeholders who play a key role in attracting visitors interested in learning through various aspects of heritage tourism.

Dr. Mpango highlighted the government's deliberate efforts to enhance tourism services, including the production of two prominent documentaries — “Tanzania: The Royal Tour” and “Amazing Tanzania.” Additional initiatives include improving tourism infrastructure such as roads, hotels, lodges, airports, and other facilities; simplifying visa processes; enhancing tourist safety; investing in human resource development; and strengthening Tanzania’s global image.

Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Ambassador Dr. Pindi Chana, remarked that significant reforms within the Ministry have strengthened the tourism sector, noting an increase in international tourist arrivals from 1.8 million in 2023 to 2.1 million in 2024. She also reported a substantial rise in domestic tourism, with numbers growing from 1.9 million to 3.2 million.

Dr. Chana further highlighted improvements in wildlife protection and management, citing the implementation of a robust anti-poaching strategy, enhanced patrols, and the use of advanced technology. "The number of wild animals continues to rise, alongside increased safety in protected areas," she said.

The Ngorongoro–Lengai Geoheritage Museum project, valued at 32 billion Tanzanian shillings, was funded by the Government of China.

Makuyuni Wildlife Park, located approximately 70 kilometers from Arusha City, continues to shine on the global tourism stage following a high-profile visit by Miss World China 2021, Ms. Jiang Sigi. She was accompanied by winners of the Miss Travel award from Hong Kong - China, Kenya, and Tanzania during a one-day special tour of the park.

The visit, organized by Miss Travel World Beauty Pageant (T/A Skyvfree International) under the umbrella of Goshen Safaris, aimed to give these influential international guests a firsthand experience of Makuyuni’s rich wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unique cultural heritage. Through their global platforms, the guests are expected to showcase Makuyuni Wildlife Park as an emerging international destination for wildlife, nature, and cultural tourism.

Speaking after the tour, Mr. Samweli Mulugu, National Coordinator of Miss Travel World – Tanzania, emphasized that the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to promote Tanzania’s tourism by engaging high-profile influencers from around the world. He noted that such visits are instrumental in positioning Makuyuni Wildlife Park as a rising star on the global tourism map, while also attracting potential investors to the country’s tourism sector.

Mr. Mulugu also commended the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA) for its commitment to sustainable tourism, conservation of natural heritage, and preservation of local cultures.

Assistant Conservation Commissioner in charge of Tourism – Northern Zone, Ms. Segoline Tarimo, expressed her gratitude to Goshen Safaris for supporting the Tanzanian Government’s efforts under the leadership of H.E. President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan to promote the country's attractions through productions like Tanzania: The Royal Tour and Amazing Tanzania.

She also took the opportunity to invite more tourists, both domestic and international, to visit Makuyuni Wildlife Park and experience its many attractions.

During the tour, the guests enjoyed live sightings of various wildlife species including elephants, giraffes, impalas, oryx, zebras, and more. They were also treated to traditional Maasai dance performances, adding a rich cultural touch to their visit.

Impressed by the scenery and diversity of attractions, the guests expressed a strong interest in returning to Makuyuni Wildlife Park for hiking experiences and to continue promoting Tanzania’s tourism treasures to the world.

 

By Philomena Mbirika, Seville – Spain

The Tourism Road Show, which began on October 6, 2025, in Spain, concluded today in the city of Seville, marking the end of a three-day tour that included visits to Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville. 

The event aimed to engage with major tourism stakeholders and promote Tanzania’s tourism attractions and investment opportunities.

The exhibition brought together approximately 100 key tour operators from Spain and provided Tanzania, represented by the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA) and Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA), with a strategic platform to strengthen its position in the European tourism market.

Oscar Gabaldòn, Director of the Spanish Association of Travel Agents and a representative of Tanganyika Expeditions, said the road show was organized in response to the growing interest among Spanish tourists in visiting Tanzania’s diverse attractions.

“Tanzania is a uniquely beautiful country, blessed with wildlife, rich culture, stunning beaches, and breathtaking mountains—all of which make it an appealing destination for the Spanish and broader European tourism market,” said Oscar.

Representatives from Ngorongoro and TANAPA stated that the event provided an excellent opportunity to showcase tourism attractions and investment opportunities within the areas managed by their institutions. Their aim is to increase tourist arrivals to support Tanzania’s national goal of attracting 8 million tourists annually by 2030.

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA) has marked the launch of this year’s Customer Service Week by engaging some of the tourists visiting the area in a symbolic event aimed at celebrating customer appreciation and service excellence.

Speaking during the ceremony held at the main entrance gate of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Loduare, several tourists commended the Authority for its continued efforts to improve services and tourism infrastructure. They expressed satisfaction with the hospitality and management of the park, pledging to promote Ngorongoro to other travelers from their home countries.

Senior Assistant Conservation Commissioner for Tourism Services, Ms. Mariam Kobelo, assured the guests that the Authority remains committed to improving service delivery and will closely review all feedback provided by visitors to further support the government’s efforts to increase tourist arrivals.

“We are using this Customer Service Week to collect feedback from our visitors. We are well-prepared to address all the comments and recommendations shared by our clients in order to practically support our government’s efforts to enhance the tourism sector,” said Kobelo.

 

Customer Service Week is celebrated globally to recognize the importance of customers and to provide institutions with an opportunity to listen, engage, and act on the feedback from those they serve.

#Ngorongoro #NCAA #CustomerServiceWeek #VisitTanzania #TanzaniaTourism #ExploreNgorongoro #WorldHeritage #TourismDevelopment

By Our Correspondent, Karatu

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA) has continued its efforts to improve staff performance and accountability through structured paramilitary training, held at the Paramilitary Training Centre in Mbulumbulu, Karatu District, Arusha Region.

Speaking on behalf of the Conservator of the NCAA during the graduation ceremony held on August 6, 2025, Senior Assistant Conservator Victoria Shayo highlighted that the training is part of the Authority’s ongoing initiatives to build a highly capable, disciplined, and professional workforce.

“Today we are concluding the training for Officers and Rangers. We believe the knowledge and skills you have acquired will empower you with the confidence, resilience, professionalism, and dedication to perform your duties in accordance with established laws, rules, and procedures,” said Shayo.

 

Providing an overview of the program, Colonel Fikiri Machibya, Head of the Training Centre, explained that the training covered structural transformation modules including military drills, target shooting, classroom instruction, and bugle playing.

“Today we are graduating a total of 17 participants—10 from Structural Transformation Course No. 3 and 7 from Bugle Training Course No. 1,” said Colonel Machibya.

 

He emphasized that the core objective of the training is to instill patriotism, discipline, and a strong work ethic in officers and rangers, enabling them to protect national resources and adhere to military protocol in the execution of their duties.

“This training aims to develop loyal, hard-working personnel dedicated to safeguarding our nation’s natural resources while ensuring they are well-prepared to carry out official military procedures as part of their everyday responsibilities,” he added.

The training is part of NCAA’s broader strategy to build a professional, motivated, and mission-ready conservation workforce committed to the sustainable management of Tanzania’s heritage.