Tanzania’s Tourism Sector Achieves Major Milestone
Tanzania has made significant progress in its tourism sector, recording 5.9 million tourist arrivals by December 2025, according to recent government reports. This achievement marks a step forward in the country’s efforts to reach eight million tourists by 2030. The government is also aiming to increase tourism’s contribution to the national economy from the current 17 percent to 20 percent over the same period.
The Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Ashatu Kijaji, highlighted that this success is the result of strong collaboration between the government and private sector stakeholders. She made these remarks during the launch of the 2025 tourism statistics and sector performance report in Arusha on Sunday, April 19, 2026.
Dr Kijaji emphasized that the ministry and stakeholders have a responsibility to ensure the tourism sector boosts revenue and strengthens its economic contribution. This includes implementing enhanced strategies to market and attract both domestic and international visitors. According to the 2024/25 statistics, total tourist arrivals reached 5.36 million, with 2.14 million being international tourists and 3.22 million domestic tourists.
She noted that continued policy reforms, improvements in laws and regulations, and the commitment of various stakeholders have played a crucial role in driving growth. Additionally, tourism promotion campaigns, such as the film The Royal Tour, have contributed significantly to the rise in tourist arrivals.
Dr Kijaji stressed the importance of a friendly policy and legal environment to attract more tourists while ensuring Tanzanians benefit from their country’s resources. “The President has repeatedly insisted that we should not create laws, regulations or procedures that prevent Tanzanians from benefiting from their resources. We must not allow laws to become an obstacle to achieving the target of eight million tourists by 2030,” she said.
She added that the government remains ready to work with stakeholders to address challenges that may hinder the growth of the sector.
Infrastructure and Training Developments
Earlier, the Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism responsible for tourism, Mr Nboka Mabula, mentioned that infrastructure challenges and access to training for stakeholders are being addressed. He stated that in the 2026/27 financial year, the ministry expects to receive Sh82 billion for tourism development, with Sh41 billion allocated for improving infrastructure.
In addition to the allocation, conservation institutions such as the Tanzania National Parks Authority (Tanapa) and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA) will continue contributing six percent of their gross revenue to support infrastructure development.
“In Sakina area, Arusha, we expect to build a campus for the National College of Tourism, which in the first phase will admit 1,200 students,” Mr Mabula said.
He added that the ministry has begun preparations to tap into opportunities presented by the AFCON 2027 tournament by forming a special team involving the private sector to benefit from the event before, during and after the competition.
Technological Advancements in the Sector
On her part, tourism stakeholder and representative of the chairperson of the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (Tato), Ms Fransisca Masika, highlighted the sector’s progress, particularly in the adoption of technology. She noted that improvements in payment systems have made business operations easier and reduced inconveniences that previously affected service delivery.
“In the past we had to load money onto cards, and sometimes we were forced to make guests wait. Now the systems have been improved and services have become easier,” she said.
Ms Masika added that the improvements have also helped reduce misuse of funds and corruption, while emphasizing the need to continue strengthening the sector’s business environment.
Future Outlook
With continued investment in infrastructure, training, and technological advancements, Tanzania is well-positioned to achieve its ambitious tourism goals. The government, along with private sector stakeholders, is committed to creating a favorable environment that supports sustainable growth and benefits all Tanzanians. As the country prepares for major events like AFCON 2027, the focus remains on maximizing opportunities and ensuring long-term success in the tourism industry.
