Tanzania calls for investment in tourism sector as tourist numbers rise

Dar es Salaam. The government is calling on investors to invest in the tourism sector by constructing hotels to cater to the increasing number of visitors showing keen interest in visiting Tanzania.

Natural Resources and Tourism Minister Angellah Kairuki said that the ongoing efforts to promote tourism have successfully attracted numerous tourists to the country.

This surge in tourism necessitates the construction of additional accommodation facilities to meet the increasing demand.

"We continue to witness the positive impact of the tourism industry, but we also bear the responsibility of safeguarding and preserving our tourism resources. The government recognises this responsibility and continues to take measures to create an environment conducive to private sector investment in this area," noted the minister.

Kairuki further added, "We are actively implementing strategies to promote various other tourism products, including beach and meeting tourism, where we have already initiated projects. In fact, we have allocated 19 hectares in Dar es Salaam for the construction of a substantial meeting facility."

The 7th Swahili International Tourism Expo (S!TE) was launched in Dar es Salaam on Friday, October 6, 2023. The event was organized by the Tanzania Tourism Board (TTB).

Kairuki highlighted that the expo serves as a prime example of the creativity and determination aimed at positioning Tanzania prominently on the global tourism stage.

She emphasised the government's readiness to facilitate an enabling environment for investment in this sector, given its significant contribution to foreign exchange.

Dr Theresa Mugodi, Director of Tourism at the Ministry of Tourism, emphasised the significant progress made during this year's tourism expo.

Notably, the event attracted the participation of major tourism agencies from the United States and other parts of the world, which is expected to have a positive impact on the sector.

The tourism boards of Malawi and Uganda are also participating in the exhibition, alongside numerous buyers from key countries such as China, Russia, and India.

The government anticipates that this exposure will promote Tanzania's attractions in these densely populated countries, resulting in an influx of tourists after the exhibition.

"This year, we have also introduced live wild animals as an attraction. After the expo, participants can explore various points of interest and discover the diverse investment opportunities available in the sector. This is a first for us, and it reflects the improvements we have made this year," she remarked.

Damas Mfugale, the Director-General of TTB, highlighted that since the inception of S!TE, the event has successfully drawn in approximately 980 international buyers, representing 50 major tourism companies worldwide.

"Our strategy is to expand the expo to become a continent-wide showcase, bringing together all African countries. This is possible given the type of attractions that we have and the existing infrastructure. These expos have consistently generated a positive response, leading to an increase in both tourist arrivals and national income,” said the TTB boss.

The government is committed to promoting the tourism sector as a key driver of economic growth and development. By investing in the sector, investors can play a vital role in supporting the government's efforts and creating jobs and opportunities for Tanzanians.