Tanzania’s tourism sector experienced a remarkable surge in 2023, contributing a record TZS 18.6 trillion to the national GDP, marking a 4% increase from the 2019 peak. The sector’s contribution to the economy is expected to continue its upward trajectory, reaching TZS 20.3 trillion in 2024 and TZS 30.9 trillion by 2034, further solidifying its role as a key driver of economic growth and job creation in Tanzania.
Tanzania’s hospitality sector is flourishing with international hotel investments, with Radisson Hotel Group leading the charge. The group plans to open seven new hotels in Tanzania, adding over 1,200 rooms to its African portfolio. This expansion reflects the surge in tourism in Tanzania, driven by the country’s stunning landscapes and growing visitor numbers. The Tanzanian government is actively encouraging further investments in luxury accommodations to cater to the increasing tourist influx.
Cyclone Hidaya is poised to strike Kenya and Tanzania, exacerbating the devastation caused by torrential rains in East Africa. Both nations have suffered tragic losses in the weeks leading up to the storm, with Kenya’s flooding claiming over 188 lives and displacing 165,000 people, while in Tanzania, floods and landslides have taken at least 155 lives. Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, awaits intense rainfall, strong winds, and ocean swells, while the Maasai Mara tourism industry has suffered with over 100 tourists stranded. Internationally, travel alerts have been issued by the US and UK. Global leaders have offered condolences and support amid the unfolding tragedy, which has been intensified by the El Niño phenomenon’s disruptions to global weather patterns.
In Tanzania, relentless downpours have caused widespread devastation, resulting in the tragic loss of 155 lives and impacting over 200,000 individuals. The situation has worsened dramatically in recent weeks, with the El Niño climate pattern intensifying the ongoing rainy season. Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has called attention to the severity of the situation, emphasizing the need for residents in low-lying areas to relocate to higher ground and for local officials to prioritize the distribution of vital supplies to those in need. Neighboring countries in the East African region, including Burundi and Kenya, are also experiencing torrential rains and flooding, with the number of casualties continuing to rise.
The World Bank has suspended funding for a controversial tourism project in Tanzania following accusations of extrajudicial killings, disappearances, and sexual assaults against local villagers. The project, known as REGROW, has been tied to a cascade of human rights abuses, according to the Oakland Institute, a California-based advocacy group. The Tanzanian government’s plans included work aimed at nearly doubling the size of Ruaha National Park (RUNAPA), the largest protected wildlife area in the country, from one million to over two million hectares. However, the expansion plans have led to the forced eviction of over 21,000 people without compensation or other land. Despite the allegations, luxury tourist options for visiting the park continue to abound. The World Bank’s suspension of funding comes after years of pressure from the Oakland Institute and local villagers. The Oakland Institute has called the decision “long overdue” and said it sends a message to the Tanzanian government that there are consequences for its human rights abuses.
Kareena Kapoor and her son Taimur Ali Khan recently embarked on an adventurous vacation to Tanzania, Africa, accompanied by her husband Saif Ali Khan and their younger son Jeh. The Bollywood star shared a series of captivating pictures from their jungle safari, capturing the mother-son duo’s memorable moments and their intimate encounter with nature. Kareena’s stunning photographs highlight the beauty of the African wilderness, showcasing Taimur’s fascination with the diverse wildlife.
Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor recently shared a series of captivating photos from her family vacation in Tanzania. Along with her husband, actor Saif Ali Khan, and sons Taimur and Jehangir, Kareena embarked on an unforgettable safari adventure. The stunning images showcase the family amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Tanzania, with Taimur taking in the beauty of the grasslands and wildlife. Kareena’s caption, ‘Savanna girl and boy. Tanzania 2024,’ perfectly captures the essence of their adventurous retreat.
The World Bank has halted funding for a $150 million tourism and conservation project in Tanzania following allegations of human rights abuses, including forced evictions and violence against communities near Ruaha National Park. The project, known as REGROW, aimed to enhance the management of natural resources and tourism assets in southern Tanzania, but raised concerns from the Oakland Institute regarding the displacement and mistreatment of tens of thousands of villagers.
The World Bank has halted funding for a tourism project in Tanzania amidst allegations of serious human rights violations affecting local communities. The project, called REGROW, aimed to enhance natural resource management and tourism assets in southern Tanzania. However, rights groups, including the Oakland Institute, have documented incidents of extrajudicial killings, sexual assaults, and cattle seizures carried out by rangers.
