Tanzania Freezes Park Entry Fees for Next 12 Months to Stabilize…

Tanzania has announced a one-year freeze on park entry fee increases to stabilize the tourism sector, providing stakeholders adequate time for preparation. Discussions for potential fee adjustments in 2026 are ongoing, with an emphasis on transparency and stakeholder involvement. Previous concerns regarding abrupt fee hikes are being addressed through a grace period where existing fees will remain enforced, indicating a commitment to sustainable tourism.

The Tanzanian government has announced a freeze on park entry fee increases for the next 12 months, a decision aimed at stabilizing the tourism sector. This announcement came from Ms. Jully Lyimo, the Assistant Conservation Commissioner at Tanzania National Parks, during a meeting with tourism stakeholders in the United Kingdom, emphasizing the importance of allowing adequate preparation time for potential future fee adjustments. The existing rates will remain unchanged at least until March 2026.

Additionally, the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority has confirmed, through Acting Conservation Commissioner Yussuf Kabange, that no new charges will be implemented until March 2026. This measure aims to ensure transparency in any future changes to tourism fees, fostering involvement from all stakeholders. Earlier concerns raised by the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators regarding substantial fee hikes were acknowledged by the government, prompting a consultative meeting to address these issues.

In response to the previous unannounced fee increases that alarmed the tourism industry, the Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Pindi Chana, convened a meeting with Tato officials on January 29, 2025. This led to an agreement to suspend new fees, allowing for a ten-month grace period. During this duration, the fees established in the Wildlife Conservation Regulations of 2016 will remain in place, reflecting the government’s commitment to stakeholder concerns.

Despite the welcome news of the fee freeze, there are calls for formalizing this practice into legislation. Tato chairperson Wilbard Chambulo stressed that advance notification concerning fee adjustments should become a legal requirement, offering stability and enhancing investor confidence. Furthermore, stakeholders like tour operator Athumani Njiku highlighted the need for improved collaboration between government and the private sector to support sustainable growth in Tanzania’s tourism industry.

In conclusion, Tanzania’s commitment to freezing park entry fee increases for the next 12 months reflects a proactive approach to stabilizing its tourism sector. By addressing stakeholders’ concerns and ensuring transparency, the government aims to foster a more sustainable tourism environment that promotes long-term growth. The call for legal measures to formalize consultation processes underscores the necessity for ongoing collaboration between the government and industry stakeholders to prevent sudden regulatory changes.

Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz