Tanzania Wildlife Authority (TAWA) is a parastatal organization established to manage, protect, and sustainably utilize wildlife resources in Tanzania outside national parks and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. It was officially formed in 2014 under the Wildlife Conservation Act No. 5 of 2009, with the main objective of improving wildlife management efficiency and strengthening conservation efforts in game reserves, game controlled areas, wildlife corridors, and open areas. Operating under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, TAWA plays a crucial role in conserving Tanzania’s vast and diverse wildlife heritage.
One of the primary responsibilities of TAWA is wildlife protection and law enforcement. The authority conducts regular anti-poaching patrols, intelligence operations, and surveillance activities to combat illegal hunting, wildlife trafficking, and encroachment into protected areas. These efforts are vital in safeguarding endangered and iconic species such as elephants, lions, giraffes, buffaloes, and various antelope species. Through cooperation with other law enforcement agencies, conservation partners, and local communities, TAWA strengthens security and reduces threats to wildlife and their habitats.
TAWA is also mandated to oversee the sustainable utilization of wildlife resources. This includes regulating tourist hunting, wildlife-based tourism, filming activities, and other authorized uses within areas under its jurisdiction. By ensuring that utilization follows conservation principles and legal frameworks, TAWA contributes to national revenue generation and supports the tourism sector, which is an important pillar of Tanzania’s economy. Revenue generated is partly reinvested in conservation, infrastructure development, and community support programs.
Community involvement is a key component of TAWA’s conservation strategy. The authority promotes community-based conservation by working closely with communities living near wildlife areas and supporting the establishment and management of Wildlife Management Areas. Through education, awareness programs, and benefit-sharing mechanisms, TAWA encourages local communities to participate actively in conservation and to view wildlife as a valuable resource rather than a threat. This approach helps reduce human-wildlife conflicts and promotes coexistence.
In addition, TAWA supports research, monitoring, and habitat management to ensure informed decision-making. By collecting ecological data, monitoring wildlife populations, and improving habitat conditions, the authority enhances long-term conservation outcomes. Overall, TAWA plays a vital role in protecting Tanzania’s wildlife resources for present and future generations while supporting sustainable development.