MONDAY January 27, 2025
By Adam Ihucha
The Tranquility News Correspondent, Tanzania
In a noteworthy achievement heralding a new era of confidence for tourists worldwide, Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) has been awarded a re-certification of ISO 9001:2015, underscoring its commitment to delivering top-notch services.
This development is set to bolster Tanzania’s reputation as a premier travel destination, as TANAPA manages 21 of the country’s breathtaking national parks, drawing visitors eager to experience African wildlife and landscapes.
The distinction, awarded by the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS), recognises TANAPA’s unyielding adherence to international quality management standards.
In a recent ceremony, the TBS Director General, Dr Ashura Katunzi, applauds TANAPA, revealing thorough evaluations confirming their consistent compliance with the ISO 9001:2015 standards.
She emphasizes the significance of this achievement, stating that it is a testament to the TANAPA’s dedication to excellence.
“This is a very important achievement for the TANAPA, and I wish to applaud members of staff for continuously embracing the quality management system in service provision,” Dr Katunzi announces to a resounding applause.
Originally certified in 2021, TANAPA’s re-certification signals the organisation’s sustained commitment to quality over the years.
The accolade not only enhances its prestige, but also solidifies its position as a leader in quality service delivery within the tourism industry.
Dr Katunzi notes that TANAPA’s dedication to these standards is reflective of its determination to ensure customer satisfaction and foster continual improvement.
The TBS DG praised TANAPA for its diligence, asserting, “The recertification means that TANAPA is the best when it comes to quality services for its customers. Congratulations for a job well done.”
This is a very important achievement for the TANAPA, and I wish to applaud members of staff for continuously embracing the quality management system in service provision,” Dr Ashura Katunzi, the Tanzania Bureau of Standards Director General.
Receiving the re-certification certificate, TANAPA’s Deputy Commissioner for Conservation and Business Development, Mr Massana Mwishawa, pledges a steadfast commitment to further elevate service quality for visitors.
Mwishawa highlights that the ISO certification since 2021 has contributed to a thriving business, promising ongoing efforts to enhance tourist experiences.
As travelers across the globe increasingly prioritise destinations marked by exceptional service standards, TANAPA’s achievement presents Tanzania as an inviting gem for those yearning for unforgettable African adventures.
With this renewed accolade, tourists now have all the more reason to explore the diverse allure of Tanzania’s national parks, confident in the knowledge that their experiences will be met by unparalleled service and commitment to excellence.
ISO Boosts Tanzania’s tourism triumphs
Mr Mwishana stands at a podium with a proud smile as he reviews remarkable growth figures for Tanzania’s national parks over the last three years.
His words echoed a deep sense of achievement, “Getting certified under the international standards framework has greatly enhanced our customers’ trust.”
Mwishana says TANAPA, has witnessed firsthand the significant rise in visitors to the parks.
This increase not only boosts park revenues, but also enhances Tanzania’s reputation as a prime tourist destination.
In the fiscal year 2021/2022, a total of 997,873 tourists visited the national parks, generating an impressive revenue of over $69 million.
The next year, 2022/2023, saw this number soaring to 1,670,437 tourists, with revenues reaching $134 million.
By 2023/2024, the figures climbed even higher, with 1,862,540 visitors and revenues of $163 million.
In the first half of 2024/2025 alone, 1,146,438 tourists had already visited, contributing $129 million to the economy.
“This framework helps us to timely anticipate client’s needs and incorporate them into our planning,” explains Mwishana, adding: “Meeting and exceeding these expectations have opened doors to new markets.”
TANAPA’s increased global recognition is partly due to endorsements from satisfied tourists and a string of prestigious awards.
The international awards included the “Best Quality Leadership Award 2024,” conferred by the European Society of Quality Research in Vienna, Austria.
Meeting and exceeding these expectations have opened doors to new markets.” The Tanzania National Parks Deputy Commissioner responsible for Conservation and Business Development, Mr Massana Mwishawa.
Additionally, the World Travel Awards honoured both Serengeti and Mount Kilimanjaro national parks.
The Serengeti was crowned Africa’s Leading National Park for a staggering six consecutive years, while Mount Kilimanjaro was named Africa’s Leading Tourist Attraction.
The implementation of this international framework has also enhanced operational efficiency within TANAPA, compelling adherence to organisational and governmental guidelines, and ensuring resources are used effectively and for appropriate purposes.
“Our commitment to international quality standards has improved our service delivery,” remarks Mwishana, adding: “Not just for international visitors, but also for domestic guests. It’s about ensuring every visit to our parks is unforgettable.”
With these initiatives, TANAPA continues refining its service systems to align with global quality standards, aiming at superior day-to-day operations and enriched experiences for all who venture into Tanzania’s breathtaking national parks.
Mr Mwishawa explains that TANAPA’s quality policy will continue ensuring every step of the service it provides adheres to high standards, aiming at promoting service excellence, maintaining its national parks, and protecting the environment.
“Through this policy, we call on all our stakeholders to collaborate with us in delivering quality services. This is important to ensure we meet our customers’ expectations and achieve our goals of sustainable conservation and tourism development,” he concludesΩ
