Tanzania Leads African Geoparks with Arusha-Meru Project

TANZANIA, LEADING THE AFRICAN GEOPARKS NETWORK, ADVANCES THE ARUSHA-MERU GEOPARK, EMBODYING UNESCO’S HOLISTIC GEOSCIENCE CONSERVATION APPROACH. THEIR COMMITMENT TO PRESERVING GEOLOGICAL TREASURES AND PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT SHOWS LEADERSHIP IN GEOTOURISM.

Tanzania, now at the helm of the African Geoparks Network, is forging ahead with its latest project—the Arusha-Meru Geopark. This initiative underscores Tanzania’s commitment to preserving geological heritage, advancing education, and fostering sustainable development within the region.

Geoparks, as defined by the United Nations, are expansive geographic areas where globally significant geological sites and landscapes receive comprehensive management, with an emphasis on protection, education, and sustainable development.

Tanzania’s Pioneering Effort

Ms. Yustina Kiwango, Assistant Commissioner for Conservation at Tanzania National Parks and Head of Arusha National Park, has confirmed the submission of essential documentation to UNESCO for the creation of the Arusha-Meru Geopark. Moreover, this landmark endeavor signifies Tanzania’s dedication to safeguarding and showcasing geological heritage. The establishment of the Arusha-Meru Geopark will contribute to conserving globally important geological sites.

In 2016, Morocco achieved distinction as the first African nation to establish the M’Goun Global Geopark.

Engineer Joshua Mwankunda’s Vision

Engineer Joshua Mwankunda, the Assistant Conservation Commissioner at the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA) and President of the African Geoparks Network, underscores the transformative impact of geoparks on the tourism sector. Additionally, he contends that geoparks represent a pioneering concept in tourism, currently invigorating Tanzania’s travel industry.

Eng. Mwankunda emphasizes that Tanzania is poised to realize its ambitious target of attracting 5 million tourists by 2025.

Arusha-Meru Geopark project illustrates a commitment to geological heritage preservation, education, and sustainable development.

Tanzania’s Arusha-Meru Geopark project isn’t just paperwork; it’s a passionate endeavor led by dedicated individuals.

Tanzania’s leadership in geoparks is already revolutionizing its tourism economy, making the country’s objective of luring 5 million tourists by 2025 a reality. We are embarking on a journey to improve our understanding of Earth’s history and to create a more sustainable future.