TATO condemns unethical safari practices and reinforces commitments

A un-edited press release dated 21st July,

The Tanzanian Tour Operators Association (TATO) expressed deep concern over the recent images and reports circulating to social media showing guests and vehicles obstructing the Mara River wildebeest crossing by standing outside their vehiles and positioning cars directly in the path of the migrating herds. This behaviour not only compromises the safety of guests and wildlife but also threatens the integrity of one of nature's most spectacular phenomena, the Great Migration.

TATO strongly condemns such actions and reiterates that they do not represent the values or standards of professional safari operators in Tanzania. This type of conduct is in direct violation of the TATO Guide Code of Conduct & Ethics, a guide framework designed to uphold professionalism, guest safety and the preservation of our natural heritage. The code, published in nine languages to ensure broad accessibility is freely available to all operators, guides and stakeholders via the TATO website.

In anticipation of the high season, TATO has proactively conducted training sessions for over 1,000 safari guides across the country. These workshops are part of our long-standing efforts to raise awareness, build capacity and reinforce best practices in ethical and responsible guidance. It is therefore both disappointing and unacceptable to witness behaviours in the field that disregard these efforts and threaten the reputation of out industry.

TATO is a fraternity of professionals united in the shared mission of promoting nature-based tourism that is respectful, sustainable, and protective of Tanzania's unique biodiversity. We believe it is not only our responsibility to protect our wildlife and eco-systems for generations to come, but also to educate our guests on how to experience a safari ethically and safely, in harmony with nature.

As stewards of Tanzania's national treasures, we must old each other accountable and continue to lead by example. Our collective future depends on safeguarding the very resources upon which our tourism industry depends.

TATO calls upon all tourism stakeholders, both members and non-members, to re-commit to the principles of sustainability, professionalism and wildlife protection. Only together can we ensure that Tanzania remains a world-class destination for ethical and unforgettable safari experiences.

Elirehema Maturo, Executive Director, TATO.

info@tatotz.org