RECENT investments made by the government at Ruaha National Park, including infrastructure improvements, have enhanced the tourist experience, contributing to the growth of the tourism sector.

Godwell Ole Meing’ataki, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Ruaha National Park, said here over the weekend, highlighting the park’s significant achievements over the past six decades.

He said that the government investments exceeding 60bn/- to facilitate construction of guest houses, staff residences and accommodations for drivers, have led to a substantial increase in visitor numbers.

He further informed that the Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Pindi Chana is today set to officiate at the grand finale of the 60th-anniversary celebrations marking the establishment of the Ruaha National Park.

The week-long festivities, which began on October 1, have included a variety of activities aimed at promoting tourism and raising awareness about conservation efforts within one of Tanzania’s largest and most popular wildlife reserves.

“Previously, we lacked sufficient facilities for visitors, but we have since improved staff and driver accommodations, built family rooms, and constructed a hostel that can host over 40 students,” Meing’ataki said.

He praised President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s efforts in promoting domestic tourism, particularly through her documentary, The Royal Tour, which has inspired many Tanzanians, especially women, to explore national parks.

“The film has generated great enthusiasm, contributing to the rise in domestic tourist numbers,” he said.

Ruaha National Park is renowned for its large populations of elephants, lions, and buffaloes, covering an extensive area, of which only 30 percent is designated for tourism activities.

Meing’ataki emphasized that Ruaha’s unique wildlife and diverse landscapes make it a major draw for both domestic and international tourists.

He further discussed the positive impact of cultivating strong relationships between the park and surrounding communities, which has helped mitigate poaching and environmental degradation.

The park has supported local communities through scholarships, school construction, and women's projects with low-interest loans, significantly contributing to regional development.

Meing’ataki also highlighted the upcoming launch of balloon tourism, in which Dr Chana will officially inaugurate it, a new initiative aimed to attract more visitors by offering breath-taking aerial views of the park.

Special events during the anniversary week have included tours for the Hehe tribal chief, traditional leaders and religious leaders, all aimed at fostering domestic tourism. A conference held in honour of the anniversary focused on the park’s history, achievements, challenges, and future conservation strategies.

Since its establishment in 1964, Ruaha National Park has expanded from 9,500 to 19,822 square kilometers, significantly boosting economic growth in the Iringa region and Tanzania as a whole. The park is now home to approximately 15,000 elephants, 20,000 buffaloes, and over 8,000 lions, among other wildlife.

In addition to its ecological importance, the park plays a critical role in national energy production.

The Ruaha River, which flows through the park, is a vital water source for the Mtera Dam, which contributes to electricity generation in Tanzania.Protecting this river is essential for sustainable energy production.

Ruaha National Park generates significant foreign revenue through tourism, as visitors pay fees for entry, accommodation, and various services.

Meing’ataki encouraged Tanzanians to participate in the anniversary celebrations in large numbers and foster a culture of conservation, particularly among children, to safeguard Tanzania’s natural heritage for future generations.