The Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA) has presented an update on the implementation of recommendations raised by the Controller and Auditor General (CAG) for the 2024/25 financial year. This update was presented before the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in Dodoma, chaired by Acting Committee Chairperson Beng’i Issa. The meeting aimed to strengthen accountability and efficiency in TAWA's responsibilities.
During the meeting, TAWA Board of Directors Chairperson Major General (Retired) Hamis Semfuko and Acting Conservation Commissioner Mlage Kabange outlined strategies to enhance wildlife conservation, increase revenue, promote tourism, and support community development. These strategies are crucial in addressing the recommendations made by the CAG. The meeting provided a platform for TAWA to demonstrate its commitment to implementing the CAG's recommendations.
TAWA has made significant efforts to control dangerous and destructive wildlife. The authority has increased the number of beehive fences from six in 2022 to 50 in 2026. Additionally, 551 rangers have been recruited, and the number of wildlife veterinarians has increased from one to five. These measures aim to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts and promote peaceful coexistence.
The authority has also focused on educating the public on how to protect themselves from wildlife-related risks. Between 2024 and 2026, 1,633,508 people received education on wildlife conservation. This initiative is part of TAWA's broader strategy to engage local communities in wildlife conservation efforts.
Through the Strategic Wildlife Investment and Conservation Areas (SWICA) programme, TAWA has achieved significant increases in revenue from game reserves. Annual revenue from the Ikorongo and Grumeti Game Reserves increased from an average of 1.9bn/- to 9.25bn/-, while community contributions rose from 26.24m/- to 362.97m/-. These funds support education and health projects in local communities.
The Maswa Game Reserve has also experienced a significant increase in revenue. Annual revenue increased from an average of 1.9bn/- to 8.6bn/-, while community contributions rose from 39.6m/- to 2.3bn/-. These funds support development projects in the area, demonstrating the positive impact of wildlife conservation on local communities.
TAWA's electronic auction system for hunting blocks has been successful, generating 87.32bn/- in revenue in 2024/25. The authority aims to reach 189 bn/- by 2027/28. Beng’i Issa thanked TAWA for the explanations provided and issued directives aimed at strengthening accountability and efficiency in the execution of the authority's responsibilities.
Key points
- TAWA has increased beehive fences from six to 50 and recruited 551 rangers.
- The authority generated 87.32bn/- in revenue in 2024/25 through its electronic auction system.
- Community contributions to conservation efforts have increased significantly through the SWICA programme.
