Tanzania Implements Stricter Tourism Regulations to Ensure Local Involvement in Booming Sector

President Samia Suluhu Hassan has issued a directive to enforce stricter tourism regulations in an effort to increase local participation in Tanzania’s tourism industry. This decision seeks to ensure that Tanzanians, particularly the youth, benefit directly from the country’s thriving tourism industry. While international firms are encouraged to manage large-scale hotel investments, the President emphasised the importance of local control over tour operations and guiding services. This decision is consistent with the government’s efforts to promote inclusivity and ensure that Tanzanians benefit economically from tourism.

A Focus on Inclusivity and Local Empowerment

The President stressed the importance of enforcing these new regulations to prevent the growing tourism wealth from becoming concentrated in the hands of foreign capital. This initiative aims to create equitable growth opportunities by ensuring that Tanzanians have access to jobs in the tour guiding sector and can directly benefit from the rising number of tourists visiting the country. The President also made it clear that any failure to comply with these regulations could undermine tourism’s potential as a driver of inclusive growth.

At the same time, President Suluhu Hassan also celebrated the growing economic impact of the tourism sector, noting that it has become a crucial pillar of the national economy. Tourism in Tanzania has rebounded strongly, with a significant increase in tourist arrivals since the pandemic. This recovery reflects the government’s sustained efforts to promote the sector as a source of employment and economic prosperity for Tanzanians.

Tourism’s Growing Contribution to the Tanzanian Economy

In her remarks, President Samia highlighted the tremendous growth of the tourism sector, revealing that the number of international and domestic tourists in the country reached 5.36 million in 2024. This figure represents a remarkable rise from the 1.41 million visitors in 2020, a time when Tanzania was still recovering from the global COVID-19 pandemic. This surge in visitors demonstrates the resilience of Tanzania’s tourism industry, with tourism revenue reaching approximately $4.2 billion in 2025.

The tourism sector has not only brought significant financial rewards but also contributed to employment. Over 2.5 million Tanzanians are now employed in various tourism-related activities. The number of registered tourism businesses and tour guides has increased steadily, indicating a thriving and increasingly diverse tourism industry. From 2020 to 2025, the number of tourism business agents grew from 2,885 to 3,735, and the number of tour guides rose from 5,076 to 7,862. These numbers reflect the sector’s positive impact on the job market and underscore the growing demand for local tourism services.

Zanzibar’s Role in Tanzania’s Tourism Boom

Zanzibar, one of Tanzania’s most iconic tourism destinations, has also seen substantial growth in visitor numbers. In 2024, Zanzibar attracted around 743,606 tourists, a figure that rose to 816,000 by 2025. This increase highlights Zanzibar’s growing significance within the broader Tanzanian tourism landscape. The President noted that the improvements observed in housing and business activity along the southern corridor of Unguja, the main island of Zanzibar, are a direct result of tourism’s positive influence on local livelihoods.

The government’s efforts to position Zanzibar as a prime destination for both international and domestic tourists are paying off, with notable investments in infrastructure and the tourism sector. The launch of new hotels, including the Jaz Elite Aurora Hotel in Michamvi, marks a significant milestone in Zanzibar’s tourism development. The launch ceremony, held in conjunction with the 62nd anniversary of the Zanzibar Revolution, showcased the region’s tourism potential and the President’s commitment to fostering growth in this key sector.

A Cabinet Reshuffle and New Appointments

In addition to her tourism directives, President Samia Suluhu Hassan recently made a minor cabinet reshuffle, aimed at strengthening the government’s administration. The reshuffle saw the appointment of Patrobas Katambi as the new Minister for Home Affairs. Katambi’s appointment replaces George Simbachawene, whose tenure has come to an end. The reshuffle also saw key personnel changes, including the appointment of Professor Palamagamba Kabudi as Minister of State in the President’s Office for Special Duties.

Other notable changes include the appointment of Dennis Londo as Deputy Minister for Industry and Trade, following his previous role as Deputy Minister for Home Affairs. Additionally, Dr Richard Muyungi has been appointed as Permanent Secretary in the Vice-President’s Office (Union and Environment), replacing Engineer Cyprian Luhemeja, who has been appointed Ambassador.

These changes reflect the President’s continued efforts to streamline the government’s functions and ensure that key leadership positions are filled with capable individuals who can drive the country’s growth agenda forward. The swearing-in ceremony for these new appointees is scheduled for January 13, 2026, at Chamwino State House in Dodoma, marking the formal induction of the new leaders into their roles.

A Bright Future for Tanzanian Tourism

With a clear focus on the sustainable growth of the tourism sector, President Suluhu Hassan’s new directives will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of tourism in Tanzania. By prioritizing local involvement, the government is ensuring that Tanzanians are not just passive recipients of tourism’s economic benefits but are actively engaged in shaping the sector’s future.

The President’s comments on Zanzibar’s growing role in Tanzania’s tourism industry also underline the significance of regional development in achieving national economic goals. As more tourists flock to Tanzania’s pristine beaches, historic sites, and vibrant cities, the country’s tourism sector is expected to continue its upward trajectory. Local communities in regions like Zanzibar are already reaping the rewards of tourism growth, with improved infrastructure, greater access to jobs, and enhanced business opportunities.

A Path to Inclusive Growth

Tanzania’s tourism sector has emerged as a driving force in the country’s economy, and President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s new regulations will ensure that local communities, particularly youth, do not fall behind in this expansion. By emphasising local participation in key areas such as tour guiding and tour operations, the government is fostering an inclusive tourism model that can serve as a model for other countries seeking to balance foreign investment with local empowerment.

As the tourism industry grows, the government will continue to prioritise sustainable growth and equitable development. With an increasing number of tourists visiting Zanzibar and the mainland, Tanzania is on track to become one of Africa’s top tourist destinations, providing unparalleled opportunities for local businesses and communities to thrive.

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