The World Bank has ended its investigation into a $150 million tourism project in Tanzania amid allegations of human rights violations involving local communities. The Regrow project, aimed at enhancing wildlife tourism, faced serious accusations by villagers against park rangers for intimidation. Although the project was closed in November 2024, the investigation findings will still be considered by the World Bank’s Board for potential actions on compliance concerns.
The World Bank has concluded its investigation into alleged human rights violations concerning a $150 million tourism project in southern Tanzania, officially known as the Regrow project. This initiative, which began in September 2017, aimed to enhance wildlife tourism in the region, particularly around Ruaha National Park, contributing significantly to Tanzania’s foreign exchange earnings by 2019. The project faced scrutiny due to claims of intimidation and forced evictions of local communities by government park rangers, leading to the project’s suspension in April 2024 and its eventual closure in November at the government’s request. Despite the suspension, the investigation continued, assessing compliance with the World Bank’s management policies. The findings will be reviewed by the Board of Executive Directors and will remain confidential until a final decision is made, post which these documents will be made public. The World Bank indicated that the government would not resettle communities in the near future, allowing villagers to continue their traditional livelihoods. According to the January 22 update, the Bank also acknowledged the presence of inadequate systems for villagers to voice their concerns over the project’s execution. Oakland Institute, which assisted the local villagers in submitting the complaint, deemed the cancellation of the project a significant victory for the communities affected by it. Overall, by the time of the funding halt, 88% of the initial budget had already been allocated, emphasizing the project’s extensive development before the allegations surfaced.
The Regrow project, initiated by the World Bank, was designed to boost wildlife tourism and create sustainable livelihoods in southern Tanzania. It was intended to assist local communities while enriching the national economy through tourism revenues. However, accusations surfaced alleging that the project’s implementation led to severe human rights violations, prompting an in-depth investigation by the World Bank that scrutinized the actions of local authorities and compliance with the Bank’s operational standards. Such investigations are part of the Bank’s Accountability Mechanism, aimed at ensuring responsible governance of its financed projects.
The World Bank’s investigation into the Regrow project highlights the complexities of development financing, human rights, and community engagement in tourism initiatives. While the Bank has terminated the project’s formal operations, the outcomes of the investigation will guide future practices and relations with local communities. The events underscore the importance of accountability and transparency in development projects, advocating for the protection of indigenous rights throughout project execution.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
