DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA’s tourism sector recorded a nine per cent increase in tourist arrivals in the first eleven months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.
The total is expected to increase further once December data are compiled, as the festive season typically leads to increased international and domestic travel.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Hassan Abbasi, disclosed the figures in Dar es Salaam on Wednesday after inaugurating a special wildlife exhibition organised by the Tanzania Wildlife Authority (TAWA).
“National statistics indicate that Tanzania received approximately 173,000 more international tourists between January and November 2025 than during the corresponding period last year,” Dr Abbasi said.
He said that despite the global economic and social challenges experienced in 2025, Tanzania’s tourism sector has remained strong, continuing to attract large numbers of both international and domestic visitors.
Dr Abbasi dismissed claims circulating in public discourse that tourist numbers in Tanzania have declined, stressing that such assertions are misleading.
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“According to those statistics, it confirms that the sector is unshaken and performing strongly. We are confident that once December figures are finalised by December 31, the overall increase will be even higher,” he said.
The PS further said that the figures are supported by data from various tourism authorities, whereby statistics released by TAWA show an 18 per cent increase in international tourists, while domestic tourism has increased by 40 per cent across attractions managed by the authority.
“I could elaborate on specific destinations such as Ngorongoro and others, but my key message remains the same, the public should not be misled by false information or discouraged by unfounded claims,” he said.
Held under the theme “Funga Mwaka Kijanja, Talii” (End the Year Smartly, Tour), the exhibition opened on December 20, 2025 and will run until January 5, 2026.
Commenting on the exhibition, Dr Abbasi said it forms part of a national tourism promotion campaign targeting the festive season.
“The exhibition brings together nearly all institutions responsible for conservation and tourism to run promotional activities across the country. Here in Dar es Salaam, we are hosting this large-scale and unique event for the first time,” he said.
He added that the exhibition features live wildlife displays alongside conservation-related exhibitions, offering visitors an engaging educational experience.
Dr Abbasi urged residents of Dar es Salaam and neighbouring regions to visit the Sabasaba Grounds on Kilwa Road to witness the live animals on display.
“I have personally seen lions, cheetahs and warthogs (Kasongo). Here Many people have only heard stories about Kasongo, but it is now here at Sabasaba for everyone to see,” he said.
TAWA Acting Director General, Mr Mlage Kabange, said the exhibition has been drawing hundreds of visitors daily, eager to view animals such as lions, elephants, cheetahs, hyenas, wildebeests and warthogs.
He said that the exhibition runs daily from morning to evening, with affordable entry fees set at 4,000/- for adults, 1,000/- for children above five years, while children under five years enter free.