Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority to Enhance Efficiency Under New Leadership
The Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism has laid out four crucial directives aimed at significantly improving the operations and impact of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA). These directives were unveiled during the swearing-in ceremony for the incoming NCAA Commissioner, Dr. Elirehema Doriye, on Monday.
Dr. Doriye, who took office on May 7, 2024, replaces Richard Kiiza in a role critical to preserving and promoting one of Tanzania’s treasured destinations.
The ceremony underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding Ngorongoro’s natural and cultural heritage while fostering sustainable tourism growth.
Leveraging Technology for Enhanced Operations
One of the primary directives emphasizes the importance of integrating advanced technology. The Minister has called on the NCAA to adopt modern information and communication technology (ICT) systems. This initiative aims to streamline operations, strengthen conservation efforts, and improve financial accountability.
Furthermore, the Minister stressed the need for robust support for the NCAA workforce, highlighting the importance of upholding their rights, providing ongoing training, and resolving any outstanding entitlements.
Boosting Tourism Through Infrastructure Development
Improving infrastructure within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is another directive aimed at bolstering tourism. The Minister has urged significant enhancements to roads, bridges, and entry gates in the region, deeming these improvements essential for attracting more visitors and providing seamless access to the area’s renowned attractions.
This infrastructure push is viewed as a vital component of the government’s broader tourism objectives.
Encouraging Domestic Tourism Participation
The Minister has made a strong appeal for increased emphasis on promoting domestic tourism. She called for initiatives to boost local visitation to attractions within the Ngorongoro Crater, noting a noticeable disparity in tourist demographics. Recent statistics revealed that between July and November 2024, over 550,000 international tourists visited Ngorongoro, compared to just 201,000 domestic tourists.
“This shows that our efforts have not matched those of our international counterparts. We must enhance local campaigns to promote regional attractions and motivate Tanzanians to explore them,” she urged.
Aligning with National Tourism Goals
The Minister affirmed that fulfilling these directives will not only elevate the tourism sector but also support the government’s ambitious goal of attracting five million tourists and generating $6 billion in revenue by 2025. She has entrusted Dr. Doriye with the critical responsibility of protecting Ngorongoro’s resources while promoting its distinctive cultural heritage.
Commitment to Sustainable Conservation Practices
In his address, Dr. Doriye expressed a strong commitment to prioritizing sustainable conservation for the benefit of future generations. He vowed to collaborate closely with local communities to create strategies aimed at protecting wildlife, forests, and cultural assets within the conservation area.
Supports for Strategic Focus and Community Welfare
Retired General Venance Mabeyo, Chairman of the NCAA Board of Directors, expressed confidence in Dr. Doriye’s capability to meet these priorities. He emphasized the need for a focused approach on sustainable conservation, tourism development, and community welfare, assuring the board’s steadfast support in realizing the outlined objectives.
