In the first nine months of this year, Tanzania has welcomed over 54,446 Chinese tourists, marking an increase of more than 20% compared to the total of 44,438 for all of last year. This significant growth is attributed primarily to the promotional success of the film Amazing Tanzania.
The film, which premiered in Beijing in May and is scheduled for its debut in Dar es Salaam today, aims to bolster tourism and diplomatic relations between Tanzania and China. Dr. Hassan Abbas, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, noted that debuting the film in China was a calculated move.
“Given China’s large population of outbound travelers, we recognized a prime opportunity to promote our nation and encourage them to explore Tanzania in person,” Dr. Abbas stated. The film features notable figures, including President Samia Suluhu Hassan and Zanzibar’s President Hussein Ali Mwinyi, along with a prominent Chinese artist, highlighting Tanzania’s diverse attractions.
Today’s launch event will be graced by the Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism of Tanzania and China’s Deputy Minister for Tourism and Culture. Dr. Abbas pointed out that the Tanzanian government has implemented targeted strategies to attract more Chinese visitors, including roadshows and extensive marketing efforts in international arenas.
The number of Chinese tourists visiting Tanzania increased from 32,000 in 2018 to 44,438 last year, following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. Mr. Methusela Ntonda, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Arts, and Sports, emphasized the enduring relationship between Tanzania and China, which has led to enhanced cultural exchanges, economic collaboration, and mutual support.
He noted that this friendship was originally established by the alliance between Chairman Mao Zedong and Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, Tanzania’s founding leader. “These two leaders laid the groundwork for friendship between our peoples, resulting in substantial diplomatic achievements over the years,” Mr. Ntonda remarked.
Over the years, this partnership has created numerous opportunities, including cultural exchange programs and training initiatives for Tanzanians. From 2014 to 2016, Tanzanian cultural officers engaged in studies focused on Chinese language and culture.
As the two nations commemorate 60 years of friendship, Mr. Ntonda highlighted the need to build on these past achievements. Future collaborations are anticipated to include digital preservation of cultural heritage, international cultural festivals, and expanded educational opportunities. Additionally, both countries aim to promote the learning of Swahili and Mandarin to enhance communication and foster collaboration in cultural initiatives, encouraging creativity and sustainable development.
