By Business Insider Reporter
Tanzania’s bold goal of attracting eight million tourists annually by 2030, up from over five million recorded in 2024/25, is expected to serve as a powerful engine for economic growth, job creation, and conservation financing.
The ambitious target – anchored in the 2025–2030 Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) manifesto – was unveiled by the Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr. Pindi Chana, on July 12 during the launch of Ngorongoro Day at the ongoing 49th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF).
“The surge in visitor numbers, especially to our national parks, proves this target is within reach. We’ve seen families, groups, and professionals embracing domestic tourism like never before,” Dr Chana said. “Now, we aim higher – with eight million tourists set to reshape the entire tourism value chain.”
Economic impact
Tourism is a critical pillar of Tanzania’s economy, contributing significantly to GDP, foreign exchange earnings, and rural livelihoods.
Reaching the eight-million mark would mean higher national revenue, expanded investment in infrastructure, and broader community benefits through inclusive tourism models.
The minister highlighted the role of strategic marketing campaigns – notably The Royal Tour and Amazing Tanzania—in driving the recent uptick in tourist arrivals. Such efforts, she said, are vital to repositioning Tanzania as a premier African destination.
Ngorongoro: A revenue powerhouse
Citing figures from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA), Dr, Chana revealed that the site generated TSh 269.9 billion in revenue during 2024/25 – a milestone linked directly to targeted promotional drives and rising domestic awareness.
“Ngorongoro Day is more than a celebration – it’s a strategic tool for educating Tanzanians about our unique heritage and encouraging them to explore it,” she noted.
This year’s Ngorongoro Day was celebrated under the theme of “Promoting Tourism Through Conservation and Community Empowerment.”
Public underscores growing interest
The Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TanTrade) Director General, Ms Latifa Khamis, added that interest in Tanzania’s natural attractions has been overwhelmingly positive. She reported that between June 28 and July 11, over 659,000 people had visited the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism pavilion at the fair -figures expected to rise further.
“This turnout shows the immense public appetite for conservation and tourism. Ngorongoro remains a crown jewel – an ecosystem where wildlife and people coexist in harmony,” said Ms Khamis.
She called for greater investment in tourism infrastructure, human capital, and global marketing to sustain this growth momentum.
Conservation and community integration
NCAA’s Senior Assistant Conservation Commissioner, Ms. Mariam Kobelo, reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to balancing ecological preservation with cultural heritage, as mandated by law. She emphasized that any growth in tourism must continue to benefit local communities who live near or within protected areas. “By integrating communities into conservation and tourism management, we protect both biodiversity and human dignity,” she said.
