Tanzania has decided to freeze park entry fee increases for the next 12 months, assuring stability in the tourism industry. This decision was communicated by Assistant Conservation Commissioner Ms. Jully Lyimo in the UK, providing time for stakeholders to prepare for potential changes beyond March 2026. Similar freezes were confirmed by the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority, emphasizing transparency in future fee adjustments.
Tanzania’s government announced a freeze on park entry fee increases for the next 12 months, ensuring stability within the tourism sector. Assistant Conservation Commissioner Ms. Jully Lyimo shared this decision during a meeting in the United Kingdom, emphasizing the importance of providing tourists and investors adequate time to prepare for any potential changes that may occur after March 2026. The commitment from Tanzania National Parks (Tanapa) highlights collaboration and transparency in the future adjustment processes.
Additionally, the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (Tawa), under Acting Conservation Commissioner Yussuf Kabange, has issued a directive to prevent any new charges until March 2026. This pause aims to involve stakeholders in discussions about fee modifications, ensuring that changes are implemented transparently and collaboratively.
Earlier this year, significant fee hikes from amendments to regulations concerning wildlife utilisation raised concerns among tourism stakeholders, especially the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO). These unannounced changes, which resulted in fees increasing by up to 100 percent, prompted TATO Executive Director Elirehema Maturo to criticize the lack of prior consultation and the potentially damaging effects on the tourism sector.
In response to TATO’s worries, Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism Pindi Chana hosted a meeting in Dar es Salaam on January 29, 2025, involving TATO officials. The discussions reiterated the importance of notifying tour operators ahead of significant fee adjustments. As a result, the government postponed the implementation of new fees, allowing for a ten-month grace period during which existing fees would apply.
Acting Conservation Commissioner Kabange noted that the decision to suspend fee increases aligns with the concerns raised during the consultations. He emphasized the government’s commitment to policy changes that will foster sustainable growth for the tourism sector. While this decision has been welcomed by many in the industry, there are advocates for enshrining such practices into law to safeguard against sudden regulatory changes.
TATO Chairperson Wilbard Chambulo underscored the need for the establishment of a legal requirement for advance notification of fee adjustments. He believes this will enhance stability and investor confidence. Additionally, tour operator Athumani Njiku highlighted the importance of transparency and collaboration between the government and the private sector to ensure the sustainable development of Tanzania’s tourism industry.
The Tanzanian government has implemented a one-year freeze on park entry fee increases in a strategic move to stabilize the tourism sector. This decision reflects a commitment to collaboration with tourism stakeholders, addressing concerns surrounding sudden fee hikes and ensuring transparency in future adjustments. The enhancements in communication and policy implementation are critical to fostering a sustainable tourism environment in Tanzania.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
