Tanzania dedicated a new airport in Ruaha National Park on Monday, with funding from the Six Rivers Africa Foundation (SRA). Mbarali DC Denis Mwila officially opened the 1.2-kilometre gravel runway, which includes a terminal that can handle more than 30 passengers.
The airstrip is expected to improve security in the park’s northern region by allowing increased air patrols to combat poaching and prevent cattle invasions. It is also expected to attract airlines, allowing for direct access to Ruaha and enabling timely emergency responses.
The airstrip’s completion aligns with the government’s attempts to strengthen tourism infrastructure through the Resilient Natural Resource Management for Tourism and Growth (REGROW) strategy.
Ruaha National Park’s Senior Assistant Commissioner, Godwell Meing’ataki, stated that the airstrip would boost tourism and provide economic prospects for local communities. He pushed pastoralists to work with park security and exploit new economic opportunities.
SRA-Tanzania Chairperson Glenn Turner thanked the government for its ongoing project support, stating that local populations would benefit from increased conservation efforts and tourism education tied to the new infrastructure.
