BY OKULY JULIUS, Dodoma
The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving infrastructure and increasing investment in the tourism sector with the aim of raising the number of tourist arrivals to eight million by 2030, in line with the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) Election Manifesto.
It has also outlined plans to address tax and non-tax challenges that hinder the growth of the tourism sector, with a view to improving the business environment and enhancing competitiveness.
The Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Ashatu Kijaji, made the remarks, December 15, 2025, during the World Travel Awards 2025 handover ceremony held at Mtumba area in Dodoma City.
Dr Kijaji said that any tax-related and non-tax-related challenges existing within the Tourism Policy and Tourism Act should be addressed promptly and effectively by the Tourism Department to ensure they do not discourage tourists or negatively affect investment in the sector.
She directed the Tourism Department to fully enforce the existing policies and laws in order to attract more investment, increase tourist arrivals and strengthen the sector’s contribution to the national economy.
The minister further noted that the Government will continue improving infrastructure and investing heavily in tourism so as to position Tanzania as a leading global tourist destination.
During the event, Tanzania received several prestigious awards, including Leading Destination – Tanzania, Leading National Park – Serengeti, Leading Balloon Ride Operator – Serengeti Balloon Safaris, Leading Exclusive Private Island – Jumeirah Thanda Island and Africa’s Best Corporate Retreat Destination – Zanzibar.
Speaking after officially receiving the awards, Dr Kijaji said the achievements were a result of the deliberate efforts of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, particularly through the Royal Tour documentary, which has significantly promoted Tanzania on the global stage.
She explained that the awards, which were announced during an international ceremony held on December 6, 2025, in Bahrain, are a clear testament to the success of the tourism sector under the Sixth Phase Government.
“Through the Royal Tour, the world has witnessed firsthand the richness of our natural attractions, heritage sites, culture and tourism investment opportunities,” said Dr Kijaji.
She added that the initiative has greatly enhanced Tanzania’s image as a peaceful, safe country with unique attractions, leading to increased tourist arrivals, greater investor confidence and stronger competitiveness in the global tourism market.
The minister commended the private sector for its significant contribution to the achievements and pledged continued collaboration to strengthen an enabling environment for tourism business and investment.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Hassan Abbasi, said Tanzania emerged victorious in five awards covering the country, government institutions and private sector stakeholders.
Dr Abbasi explained that the awards were presented during the 32nd World Travel Awards 2025 ceremony held on December 6, 2025, in Bahrain, where Tanzania retained the title of the World’s Leading Safari Destination for the third consecutive year.
He added that Serengeti National Park won the award for World’s Leading National Park 2025, while Zanzibar (Spice Islands) emerged winner of the World MICE Awards 2025 as Africa’s Leading Meetings and Conference Destination.
Furthermore, private sector stakeholders also excelled, with Serengeti Balloon Safaris winning the award for the World’s Leading Balloon Ride Operator, and Jumeirah Thanda Resort, located on Mafia Island, being named the World’s Leading Exclusive Private Island Resort.
“These awards confirm the high standards, quality attractions and hospitality services that Tanzania continues to offer at international level,” said Dr Abbasi.
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