Govt nods to construction of new NgorongoroLengai Geopark

ARUSHA: THE government has acknowledged the ongoing construction of the state-of the-art Ngorongoro-Lengai Geopark, which is expected to enhance Tanzania’s position as a global tourism destination upon its completion in May next year.

Funded by the Chinese government at a cost of approximately 25bn/-, the project is being built by the Chinese contractor, China Railway 25th Bureau Group.

The Minister for Tourism and Natural Resources, Ambassador Dr Pindi Chana, expressed her appreciation for the project while laying the foundation stone for the Ngorongoro-Lengai Geopark in Karatu, Arusha Region, over the weekend.

Dr Chana highlighted that this development reflects the enduring partnership between Tanzania and China, which has spanned various sectors including trade, culture, health and tourism since the 1960s.

Through the Ngorongoro-Lengai Geopark project, Dr Chana said, China continues to support Tanzania’s journey of growth, particularly in tourism and conservation.

“The development of the Ngorongoro-Lengai Geopark will not only enhance the experience for visitors but also strengthen Tanzania’s standing as a global tourism destination, especially under the leadership of President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan,” Dr Chana remarked.

ALSO READ: Don advocates for DMOs to enhance tourism

According to the minister, the project will also improve the dissemination of tourism information across Ngorongoro, Karatu, Monduli and Longido Districts, once completed.

Additionally, Dr Chana disclosed that the Geopark project will bolster disaster risk management by incorporating modern equipment capable of detecting early signs of natural disasters, such as volcanic eruptions, thus ensuring safety for all in the area.

“Among other benefits, the project will establish protective shelters for the preservation of the Laetoli hominin footprints in Ngorongoro,” said Dr Chana.

“This will contribute to the proper conservation of these ancient footprints and further elevate Tanzania’s global profile in tourism, conservation and cultural heritage.”

Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania, Ms Chen Mingjian, expressed similar sentiments, highlighting that the Ngorongoro-Lengai Geopark project would not only strengthen the partnership between Tanzania and China but also showcase Tanzania’s rich natural resources and heritage sites.

The ambassador reiterated that the project demonstrates China’s dedication to contributing to Tanzania’s development and boosting its tourism sector.