By Business Insider Correspondent, Dodoma
The Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA) has unveiled an ambitious set of priorities for the 2026/27 financial year, positioning wildlife conservation and tourism as key drivers in the implementation of the new national long-term development blueprint, Dira 2050.
Speaking at the official opening of the budget preparation workshop here on March 13, 2026, Acting Conservation Commissioner Mlage Kabange (pictured), described the upcoming budget as both strategic and transformative.
“This is our first budget to align directly with the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) 2025 Election Manifesto and the broader aspirations of Dira 2050,” he noted.
Commissioner Kabange emphasized that the budget also translates into action key policy directions outlined by President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan during the inauguration of the 13th Parliament.
He added that it also reflects TAWA’s renewed focus on revenue growth and institutional strengthening under the newly appointed fourth Board of Directors.
At the core of the 2026/27 TAWA budget is a strong commitment to enhancing the protection and sustainable management of wildlife and antiquities resources – an area seen as central to safeguarding Tanzania’s natural heritage while unlocking its economic potential.
During the fiscal year, TAWA will also prioritise the expansion of tourism activities, with plans to improve infrastructure, attract more visitors, and diversify revenue streams through the development of new tourism products.
“These efforts are critical not only for conservation, but also for positioning Tanzania as a competitive global tourism destination in line with Dira 2050,” Commissioner Kabange said.
The Authority is also placing renewed focus on addressing persistent human-wildlife conflicts and boundary disputes, particularly in areas adjacent to conservation zones. Measures to control dangerous and destructive wildlife are expected to enhance community safety while fostering coexistence.
Internally, TAWA aims to strengthen its institutional capacity by improving working conditions for staff and enhancing overall service delivery. Commissioner Kabange underscored the importance of operational discipline, directing commanders to ensure proper management of assets, including vehicles, and to uphold accountability across all levels.
In a push to boost visibility and competitiveness, TAWA leadership has been tasked with intensifying the promotion of tourist attractions and spearheading innovation in tourism offerings. Commanders were urged to actively market the areas under their jurisdiction and identify new opportunities to attract both domestic and international tourists.
At the same time, Commissioner Kabange reiterated the importance of professionalism and adherence to laws and guidelines among rangers, noting that discipline and integrity remain critical to achieving the Authority’s mandate.
He also commended commanders and field rangers for their dedication and frontline role in delivering TAWA’s objectives, encouraging them to sustain momentum as the Authority embarks on this new strategic phase. The budget preparation workshop brought together TAWA leaders from headquarters, zonal offices, and field stations, marking a critical step in shaping a roadmap that aligns conservation with Tanzania’s long-term socio-economic transformation under Dira 2050.
