TATO Celebrates 42 Years of Excellence: A Milestone AGM Marking Unity, Progress, and Purpose

The Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO) proudly celebrated its 42nd ANNIVERSARY & ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (AGM) on 20th November 2025 at the iconic Mount Meru Hotel in Arusha, bringing together tour operators, tourism professionals, government representatives, partners, and industry leaders. It was a remarkable day that honored TATO’s four decades of service while setting a strong foundation for Tanzania’s tourism future.

The event opened with member registration and the vibrant launch of the TATO AGM Biashara Exhibition, an interactive networking platform that brought together exhibitors, sponsors, and operators to explore business opportunities, strengthen collaborations, and showcase innovations shaping the tourism industry. This networking session, paired with a shared lunch, created a spirited environment that reflected the unity and energy within Tanzania’s tourism community.

At 2:00 PM, the formal AGM began with a warm welcome from the TATO Executive Director, followed by the official opening remarks from TATO Chairman Mr. Willy Chambulo. Members confirmed the previous AGM minutes before the Chairman delivered an in-depth address that captured the triumphs, challenges, and strategic direction of the industry.

A Year of Strength, Resilience, and National Pride

In his keynote address, Chairman Chambulo described the past year as a period marked by both significant progress and unexpected challenges—yet the tourism sector remained steadfast throughout. Despite regulatory adjustments, market unpredictability, media narratives, and political events that stirred temporary uncertainty, Tanzania’s tourism value chain continued to operate smoothly.

He emphasized that at no time were tourists threatened or harmed and that safari circuits, airports, lodges, hotels, parks, and transportation services all remained fully operational. He reassured members that digital analytics consistently showed strong global interest in Tanzania, a signal that confidence in the destination remains high.

The Chairman celebrated TATO’s achievements, noting its advocacy successes, strengthened partnerships with TANAPA, NCAA, TTB, MoNRT, and Immigration, and its increased international visibility—including receiving the prestigious UN Tourism recognition this year. He also reflected on the impact of TATO’s training programs that have enhanced professionalism among guides, drivers, and SMEs, strengthening the industry’s human capital.

Safeguarding Tanzania’s Image: Addressing Recent Events with Clarity and Unity

Chairman Chambulo spoke candidly about the recent post-election disturbances that were amplified by sections of foreign media. He clarified that these reports did not reflect the actual situation on the ground, particularly within tourism corridors. He underscored the importance of managing perception, noting that tourism relies not only on real safety but the perception of safety.

To protect Tanzania’s tourism reputation, TATO coordinated swift and unified communication efforts. These included issuing factual updates to partners and embassies, correcting misinformation, monitoring global travel advisories, and working with government and tourism agencies to ensure consistent messaging. The Chairman emphasized that safeguarding Tanzania’s global image is essential because tourism is one of the country’s top contributors to foreign exchange, employment, and national development.

He also outlined TATO’s formal recommendations to government, focusing on clear official communication, embassy engagement, stronger national messaging, visible yet friendly security measures, stability in tourism-related fees, reassurance campaigns, tourism diplomacy, and improved service at borders and airports. These efforts aim to restore confidence quickly and ensure that Tanzania remains a preferred global destination—especially as the industry approaches the festive season.

Our Valued Sponsors: Backbone of a Successful 42nd Celebratory AGM

The success of the 42nd Anniversary & AGM was made possible through the generous support of sponsors who continue to stand with TATO and Tanzania’s tourism industry.

The Main Sponsor, Tanganyika Wilderness Camps (TWC), played a central role in powering the event and demonstrating ongoing commitment to quality African hospitality and safari experiences.

Our Gold Sponsors, including Hanspaul Group, Leopard Tours Limited, NMB Bank, and Flightlink—contributed significantly to the event’s success, representing excellence in tourism mobility, financing, ground handling, and aviation services.

Our Silver Sponsors, including Sameer Parts, Precision Air, Great Lakes (Mwambao Lodge Tarangire), Ujumbe Ink, and Serengeti Balloon Safaris, showcased the diversity and collaborative spirit within the tourism ecosystem, all contributing their unique value to the growth of the industry.

TATO acknowledges and deeply appreciates the continued commitment of these sponsors, whose involvement reflects the strength of shared purpose and long-standing relationships built over the years.

Elections, Recognition, and a Night of Celebration

Members reviewed the 2024 audited accounts before proceeding with the election of office bearers. Sponsors shared brief remarks, each reflecting on their commitment to the tourism industry. Shortly after, TATO announced the day’s winners and concluded the formal agenda before members transitioned to the evening’s festivities.

The atmosphere transitioned into a lively Networking Cocktail followed by a grand Gala Dinner, celebrating 42 years of TATO’s leadership in elevating Tanzania’s tourism sector. It was a night filled with pride, gratitude, and renewed commitment to future achievements.

The Role of TATO: Four Decades of Leadership in Tanzanian Tourism

TATO has spent the past 42 years serving as the united voice of Tanzania’s tourism sector. Established in 1983, the Association has continuously championed reforms, strengthened standards, and promoted Tanzania across the globe.

TATO’s work is anchored in four core pillars:

• Advocacy & Lobbying
  Ensuring policies, regulations, and fees support tourism growth, competitiveness, and ease of business.
• Research & Marketing
  Positioning Tanzania as a leading global tourism destination through data-driven insights and international visibility.
• Consultancy & Training
  Enhancing the capacity of members, guides, drivers, and entrepreneurs, ensuring the highest levels of professionalism.
• Information Sharing
  Keeping operators informed on regulatory changes, market trends, safety advisories, and emerging opportunities.

Through these roles, TATO remains a bridge between government and private sector, a catalyst for innovation, and an advocate for a thriving, responsible tourism industry.

Tourism and Tanzania’s Economic Growth

Tourism remains one of Tanzania’s largest contributors to GDP, job creation, and foreign exchange earnings. It fuels countless value chains—from conservation financing and transport to agriculture, crafts, banking, and community livelihoods.

With over 1.9 million jobs supported directly and indirectly, and annual earnings exceeding USD 3.9 billion, tourism continues to drive Tanzania’s economic transformation. As global markets evolve, TATO’s leadership ensures that operators remain competitive, compliance becomes easier, and Tanzania’s reputation continues to shine on the world stage.

A Future Built on Unity, Strategy, and Confidence

In closing, Chairman Mr. Chambulo extended heartfelt appreciation to TATO members for their resilience, trust, and continued commitment. He thanked government partners for their collaboration and celebrated the dedication of tourism professionals who form the backbone of the sector.

He reminded the audience that Tanzania has overcome challenges before and has always emerged stronger.

“Together, we will continue to uphold Tanzania’s reputation as one of the safest, most peaceful, and most welcoming destinations in Africa.”