The Tanzanian government has frozen park entry fee increases for 12 months to stabilize the tourism sector and allow for adequate preparation time. Assistance from stakeholders like the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators led to this decision, with emphasis on transparent practices. Future fee adjustments are expected to involve proper notice and consultation.
The Tanzanian government has announced a freeze on park entry fee increases for the next 12 months, ensuring stability in the tourism sector amid ongoing discussions about potential adjustments in 2026. Ms. Jully Lyimo, the Assistant Conservation Commissioner at Tanzania National Parks (Tanapa), emphasized the need for adequate preparation time for visitors and investors before future fee modifications.
Additionally, the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (Tawa) has confirmed, via a letter from Acting Conservation Commissioner Yussuf Kabange, that no new charges will be implemented until March 2026. This measure aims to promote transparency and stakeholder involvement when adjusting tourism fees.
The decision follows concerns raised by the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (Tato), regarding unexpected fee hikes due to regulatory amendments that had alarming effects on the tourism industry. Tato’s executive director, Elirehema Maturo, criticized these abrupt changes, underscoring their adverse impact on the sector.
In response to these concerns, the Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Pindi Chana, held a meeting with Tato officials to address the situation. The government subsequently granted a suspension of new fee implementations and provided a grace period until December 31, 2025, during which existing fees will apply.
Acting Conservation Commissioner Yussuf Kabange reiterated that the government is dedicated to ensuring future policy adjustments support the tourism sector’s long-term growth. While this decision has garnered support from tour operators, calls have been made for formalizing such practices into law to safeguard against sudden regulatory changes.
Tato chairperson Wilbard Chambulo advocated for making advance notification of fee changes a legal requirement. Collaboration between the government and the private sector was emphasized as crucial for the sustainable growth of Tanzania’s tourism industry, a sentiment echoed by tour operator Athumani Njiku.
In summary, the Tanzanian government’s decision to freeze park entry fee increases for one year aims to stabilize the tourism sector and provide stakeholders with sufficient preparation time. This initiative follows significant concerns from industry players regarding abrupt fee hikes, and it reflects the government’s commitment to a transparent and collaborative approach in managing tourism regulations. Stakeholders are encouraged to seek legal assurances for advance notice of fee adjustments to foster stability and investor confidence in the sector.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
