Tanzania has recorded a positive growth trend in its wildlife populations over the past decade, according to the newly released 2024/2025 National Wildlife Census Report.

The report, presented to President Samia Suluhu Hassan at State House in Dar es Salaam by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism through the Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute (TAWIRI), highlights significant progress in conservation efforts across the country.

For the first time, the entire census exercise was fully financed by the Tanzanian government, marking an important step towards financial self-reliance in wildlife management and conservation research.

The census was conducted between September 2024 and October 2025 across various ecosystems nationwide and identified 28 species of medium and large wildlife.The findings show that all recorded species have experienced an overall positive conservation trajectory compared to data collected ten years ago.

This improvement is largely attributed to strengthened anti-poaching measures, better habitat protection strategies, and increased community participation in conservation programmes.

President Samia praised the institutions involved, noting that the results confirm Tanzania’s strong position as one of Africa’s richest wildlife destinations.

She also emphasized the importance of public awareness and education, encouraging initiatives that help citizens, especially young people, understand and value the country’s natural heritage.Teaching children Kiswahili names of wildlife species was highlighted as part of building a stronger conservation culture from an early age.

The report also underlines the importance of wildlife for Tanzania’s tourism industry, which remains a key contributor to the national economy through foreign exchange earnings and job creation.Iconic destinations such as Serengeti and Ngorongoro continue to benefit from improved conservation outcomes.

Authorities expect the detailed findings to guide future policy decisions, resource allocation, and sustainable tourism development planning across the country.