Ngorongoro stresses voluntary resettlement of residents

By Guardian Correspondent, Arusha

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCCA), has reaffirmed its commitment to voluntarily resettling residents from within the conservation area, despite opposition from certain groups accused of exploiting these residents for financial gain through international organizations.

Speaking to press in Arusha over the weekend, Acting Public Relations Manager Hamis Dambaya stated that the resettlement process is proceeding smoothly, with many residents opting to move.

The government is working to complete the construction of homes and other infrastructure to facilitate the transition.

“The National Service is making significant progress in building houses in Msomera Village, with new homes being completed daily,” Dambaya said. “Efforts to educate residents about the benefits of resettling from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area are ongoing, ensuring that every resident who wishes to move can do so.”

Dambaya emphasized that the process is being conducted carefully to avoid any forced resettlement from other parts of the country or neighboring countries. “Many Tanzanians view this as an opportunity for economic and lifestyle improvement compared to life within the conservation area. Any fraudulent claims for resettlement benefits will be addressed according to national laws and regulations,” he added.

Addressing allegations of human rights violations within the conservation area, Dambaya dismissed them as unfounded claims by individuals seeking to mislead the international community for financial gain.

“For years, certain organizations and journalists have exploited the community living within the conservation area as a source of income from various nations and international bodies. These individuals are now concerned about losing their revenue stream as residents voluntarily resettle,” Dambaya stated.

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority has never forcibly removed anyone from the area, he said, noting that most institutions making these claims are based outside Tanzania and often lack an understanding of the residents' lives.

The Tanzanian government continues to support the voluntary resettlement of residents from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area to improve their living conditions, particularly given the increasing population of both people and animals, which impacts their livelihoods.

Established in 1959, the conservation area initially had 8,000 residents, but today, it hosts over 100,000 people, leading to challenging living conditions and limited development opportunities.

Since the resettlement initiative began, some institutions that have financially benefited from the Maasai community within the conservation area have expressed their displeasure.

These groups have sought financial support globally to undermine the voluntary resettlement process.