Tanzania’s Ambassador to the US, Mwanaidi Majaar (C), introduces visiting US business executives to former first lady Anna Mkapa (R) at the Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair on Monday. The entourage is in the country to explore areas for investment. (Photo: Moshi Lusonzo)

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism in collaboration with the Tanzania Tourists Board (TTB) has been advised to now focus on promoting the ‘southern circuit’ to reduce congestion of vehicles en-route to the infamous Ngorongoro crater.

Kjell Bergh of the Tanzanian Consulate made the remarks during a brief stop at the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism kiosk at the ongoing Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF).

Accompanied by delegates from the US on a ‘VIP business and leisure safari’ to ‘discover Tanzania’ he had short discussion with the Director of Tourism, Ibrahim Mussa, whereby it transpired that the growing traffic at the World’s Eighth Wonder was harmful to the ecosystem.

 “…Selous Game Reserve…” figured the consulate “…why don’t you promote this park and reduce the number of vehicles going to Ngorongoro Crater…” he premised.

In his ministry’s defence, the director of tourism said they were ‘trying’ to put more effort in the promotion of the Southern Circuit national parks after which he mentioned inadequate funding as an impediment.

The director offered a solution, “…I invite the American companies to invest in our tourism sector…” and he assured any willing parties that “…the ministry will be ready to support them….”

Mwanaidi S. Maajar, Ambassador of Tanzania to the United States passed the ball right back at the Director of Tourism urging him to ‘market what we have to the US market’ but also promised to ‘organise VIP Safari to Tanzania’ to help with the marketing. 

Tanzania boasts many a national park and game reserves home to some of the world’s largest specie varieties and diverse unique ecosystems. 

Some famous tourist attractions in the said Southern Circuit include, Mikumi National Park, Ruaha National Park, Udzungwa Mountains National Park, Selous Game Reserve, Gombe Stream National Park, Kitulo Plateau National Park, Mahale Mountains National Park, Saadani National Park and Rubondo Island National Park.