Tanzanias recently announced Prohibition of Business Activities for Non-Citizens order, issued on July 28, has raised concerns in East Africas safari industry. The policy specifically prohibits employment of foreigners in certain roles, including tour guiding.
The governments stated intention is to prioritise local employment opportunities and ensure Tanzanian citizens take the lead in these positions. However, industry voices across the region warn that the move could have consequences.
Onne Vegter , MD of Wild Wings Safaris, says his company already uses Tanzanian guides for safaris, especially in multi-country itineraries where its standard practice to hand over guests at the border, but he cautions against seeing it as a blanket win for job creation.