The Tanzanian government has frozen park entry fee increases for a year to stabilize the tourism sector, providing time for preparation. Discussions for 2026 fee adjustments will continue, while concerns over abrupt fee hikes earlier this year were acknowledged. Stakeholders urge for legal measures to enforce advance notice for future fee changes.
The Tanzanian government has announced a freeze on park entry fee increases for the next 12 months. This decision aims to stabilize the tourism sector and provide adequate preparation time for both tourists and investors for any future changes. Assistant Conservation Commissioner Ms. Jully Lyimo confirmed that current rates will remain unchanged at least until March 2026. The Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (Tawa) has also halted any new charges until the same date.
During a meeting with tourism stakeholders in the UK, Ms. Lyimo emphasized the importance of this freeze for ensuring stability. Recent fee hikes, which increased charges by up to 100 percent without prior notice, sparked significant concerns from the tourism industry, particularly from the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (Tato). Executive director Elirehema Maturo criticized these abrupt surprises, stating they could disrupt the tourism market.
In response to mounting pressure, Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Pindi Chana, facilitated a meeting on January 29, 2025, to address the industry’s grievances. The government decided to suspend the new fee implementation and granted a ten-month grace period from February 15, 2025, to December 31, 2025, during which the previous fee structure would remain effective.
Acting Conservation Commissioner Yussuf Kabange stated that the decision aligns with stakeholders’ concerns expressed during consultations. He reiterated the government’s commitment to developing the tourism sector sustainably. While tour operators appreciate the freeze and the transition period, there are ongoing calls to formalize this practice into law to prevent sudden regulatory changes in the future.
Tato chairperson Wilbard Chambulo advocated for legal requirements for advance notification of fee adjustments, to enhance stability and boost investor confidence. He expressed a need for regular consultations between the government and the private sector to facilitate smoother implementations of any future changes. Arusha-based tour operator Athumani Njiku supported this view, emphasizing the need for improved transparency for sustainable growth in Tanzania’s tourism.
The Tanzanian government’s decision to freeze park entry fees for the next year reflects a commitment to stabilizing its tourism sector. While the halt on fee increases allows for necessary preparation time, stakeholders call for legal protections against sudden regulatory changes. Continued communication and collaboration between the government and private sector are crucial for ensuring the sustainable growth of tourism in Tanzania.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
