RUFIJI: THE launch of Mtemere Airstrip in Mloka Village, Rufiji District, Coast Region, is expected to expand tourism and stimulate economic growth in the region and across Tanzania.
Coast Regional Commissioner Mr Abubakar Kunenge made the remarks this week during Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba’s official tour of the region, which included the handover of 21 tourism infrastructure projects under the Southern Circuit Development Programme, valued at 114.6bn/-.
“Our region has 87 tourist attractions, including Africa’s largest wildlife reserve, Nyerere National Park. Having this airstrip in place means increased tourism activities and other economic opportunities in our region,” he said.
Mr Kunenge said that the Coast Region boasts a 1,132-square-kilometre coastal strip spanning Mafia, Bagamoyo, Mkuranga and Rufiji Districts.
“We have a coastline that supports marine tourism. In Mafia District, for example, the Whale Shark attracts a large number of tourists each year,” he noted.
He added that the region is making good progress in implementing projects across sectors such as tourism, industry and investment, emphasising that tourism remains a key priority.
Some of the region’s no table attractions include Saadani National Park, which borders the Indian Ocean; Kaole Ruins in Bagamoyo District; the historic town of Bagamoyo; scenic beaches such as Palacha, Shungubweni and Koma in Mkuranga District; and the Pugu-Kazimzumbwi Forest Reserve.