The Tanzanian government has initiated improvements to a 38-kilometer road linking Rukoma Village to Mahale Mountains National Park in Kigoma Region. Kigoma Regional Commissioner Simon Sirro stated that the project aims to enhance accessibility and boost domestic tourism, addressing the major obstacle of poor infrastructure that currently makes the journey from Kigoma town five to six hours long. He directed the Uvinza District Council to proceed with the road's rehabilitation for the benefit of tourists and residents.
Assistant Park Commissioner Halid Mngofi reported a significant increase in tourist numbers, which rose from 210 in the 2020/2021 period to 923 in 2023/2024. He identified the poor road conditions as the park's primary challenge, often forcing visitors to use air transport, especially during the rainy season. Other reported difficulties include human encroachment, poaching, and dangerous animal encounters. The park is renowned for protecting a large population of eastern chimpanzees and hosts diverse habitats supporting numerous rare bird and primate species.
Assistant Park Commissioner Halid Mngofi reported a significant increase in tourist numbers, which rose from 210 in the 2020/2021 period to 923 in 2023/2024. He identified the poor road conditions as the park's primary challenge, often forcing visitors to use air transport, especially during the rainy season. Other reported difficulties include human encroachment, poaching, and dangerous animal encounters. The park is renowned for protecting a large population of eastern chimpanzees and hosts diverse habitats supporting numerous rare bird and primate species.
