Dar es Salaam – The government has directed Dr Elirehema Doriye, the newly appointed Conservation Commissioner at the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA), to expand tourism efforts in order to increase the number of visitors.
This directive was issued during a ceremony on December 23, 2024, where Ambassador Dr Pindi Chana, the Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, officially swore in Dr Doriye at the NCAA headquarters in Arusha.
In her address, Minister Chana emphasized the need for Dr Doriye to develop plans that enhance key attractions such as Olduvai Gorge, the Amboni Caves, the Mbozi Meteorite, the Engaruka Ruins, and the Mumba area.
“These historical and natural sites have great potential to draw more tourists,” she stated. “We must invest in improving these attractions to boost visitor numbers and promote our cultural heritage.”
Additionally, the minister highlighted the importance of upgrading tourism infrastructure.
She urged the NCAA to ensure that roads remain accessible and to enhance services for visitors, creating a more enjoyable experience.
Collaboration between NCAA staff and external stakeholders was also identified as crucial for improving operational efficiency.
In response to these directives, Commissioner Doriye expressed his gratitude to President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan for his appointment and pledged to approach his new role with dedication.
“My mission is to ensure the sustainable conservation of the Ngorongoro area,” he affirmed. “I will protect our natural and historical resources while incorporating technology to enhance our operations.”
Dr Doriye outlined his vision for strategic tourism development, focusing on improving infrastructure, service quality, and the overall visitor experience at Ngorongoro’s attractions.
He emphasized the importance of engaging local communities and fostering partnerships to create and implement effective tourism initiatives.
The ceremony was attended by numerous dignitaries, including Deputy Minister Dunstan Kitandula and various officials from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism.
They collectively expressed their commitment to supporting the NCAA’s goals and recognized the critical role of sustainable tourism in preserving Tanzania’s rich natural heritage.
As the event concluded, there was a shared sense of optimism for the future of Ngorongoro.
With a clear mandate to expand tourism, Dr Doriye’s leadership is poised to transform the visitor experience and bolster conservation efforts in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
