Dar es Salaam. On Thursday, December 5, Tanzania and Germany took significant steps to deepen their cooperation in the fields of colonial heritage, national museums and biodiversity conservation.
A high-level meeting was held at the National College of Tourism in Dar es Salaam, bringing together Tanzanian and German officials to discuss a wide range of collaborative projects.
At the heart of the discussions was the shared goal of protecting biodiversity, preserving historical heritage, and supporting the sustainable growth of Tanzania’s tourism industry.
The meeting, held at the National College of Tourism, was chaired by Tanzania’s Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Pindi Chana, with Christoph Retzlaff, the Director for Sub-Saharan Africa and the Sahel at the German Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, representing Germany.
They were joined by key diplomats and representatives from both countries, underscoring the importance of this partnership.
Biodiversity and environmental conservation
One of the key areas of cooperation identified during the meeting was biodiversity conservation. Both Tanzania and Germany recognize the critical role of preserving natural ecosystems, especially in light of climate change and growing pressures on wildlife.
The German delegation expressed a strong interest in supporting Tanzania’s efforts to safeguard its rich biodiversity through funding and technical assistance.
Minister Chana highlighted the importance of these efforts, noting that Tanzania’s natural resources—ranging from its iconic national parks to its unique flora and fauna—are invaluable assets that need to be protected for future generations.
“Germany’s continued support in funding projects aimed at environmental protection will ensure Tanzania remains a global leader in biodiversity conservation,” she said.
The two sides agreed to expand their collaboration on conservation projects, particularly in the management of Tanzania’s vast national parks and the protection of endangered species.
Germany, through its Ministry of Development, has already been involved in funding several conservation initiatives, and this partnership is expected to grow.
Cultural heritage and colonial legacy
Another crucial topic discussed was the preservation of Tanzania’s colonial heritage.
The country’s rich cultural history, from ancient civilizations to the colonial era, plays a significant role in shaping its national identity.
The meeting emphasized the importance of preserving this heritage, with a focus on the legacy of colonialism and its impact on the country’s development.
Minister Chana shared her vision of a more comprehensive approach to heritage preservation, not just focusing on tangible artifacts but also on intangible cultural elements.
“We aim to create a framework that will protect and celebrate our colonial heritage, while also ensuring it serves as an educational tool for future generations,” she explained.
The German delegation expressed their willingness to support Tanzania in these efforts, particularly through the establishment of collaborative museum projects and the conservation of historical sites.
The discussions hinted at the potential for joint projects between the National Museum of Tanzania and German institutions specializing in historical and cultural preservation.
Tourism and economic growth
Tanzania’s tourism sector, which contributes 17 percent to the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and 25 percent of its foreign exchange earnings, was also a central theme of the meeting.
The sector has seen significant growth, thanks in part to Germany’s continued support for tourism-related initiatives.
The meeting underscored the need for further cooperation in promoting sustainable tourism practices that not only attract international visitors but also ensure that the benefits of tourism reach local communities.
Minister Chana highlighted the ripple effects of tourism on the Tanzanian economy.
“Tourism has created thousands of jobs, both directly and indirectly, from small entrepreneurs to those providing essential services like transportation, food, and accommodation. It has been a catalyst for economic empowerment across the country,” she said.
The German delegation reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the growth of Tanzania’s tourism sector, particularly through initiatives that focus on sustainable and eco-friendly tourism.
A shared vision for the future
The meeting between Tanzania and Germany was not just about discussing current projects but also about laying the groundwork for future collaboration.
As Mr Retzlaff emphasized: “Germany sees Tanzania as a crucial partner in the African continent, and we are committed to working together on more areas, biodiversity in particular.”
Both countries expressed optimism about the potential of their partnership.
By working together on these key areas, Tanzania and Germany aim to not only enhance the country’s tourism industry but also to safeguard its natural and cultural treasures for future generations.
The collaboration between Tanzania and Germany is a shining example of how international partnerships can drive progress, protect the environment, and create opportunities for sustainable growth.
Through their shared commitment to these goals, both nations are taking meaningful steps toward a brighter and more sustainable future.
