China, Tanzania seal a Sh25 billion tourism deal

China and Tanzania have finalized a Sh25 billion ($9.7 million) deal for the Ngorongoro Lengai Geopark Project. The agreement, signed between the Ngorongoro Conservative Authority and the Chinese government, is expected to enhance Tanzania’s tourist attractions and extend the duration of visitors’ stays.

The Sh25 billion Ngorongoro Lengai Geopark Project was officially signed by Richard Kiiza, the Conservation Commissioner of the NCAA, and Chu Kun, the acting ambassador of China to Tanzania, according to reports from Tanzanian news outlet The Citizen.

The Ngorongoro Lengai Geopark Project, anticipated to be completed by mid-2025, encompasses the construction of tourism infrastructure in Miamba (Geopark).

Joshua Mwankunda, Senior Assistant Commissioner for Conservation in charge of Cultural Heritage and Geology, disclosed that via this project, Tanzania would build a massive geology museum as well as restore the footprints of ancient humans that once inhabited the Laetoli region.

Additionally, tourist viewing platforms in Empakaai, Seneto, and Oldoinyo Lengai are in the works.

“There will be a dedicated facility for research and tourism, allowing visitors to explore the ancient footprints of Laetoli. Infrastructure will also be established to offer insightful interpretations of geological tourism resources at approximately 100 sites,” the commissioner said.