By Staff Writer, Babati
Chem Chem Safaris, a conservation and tourism organization located within the Burunge Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in Babati, Manyara Region, has been honored with a prestigious community-inclusive conservation and tourism award.
The award, bestowed by the African Travel and Tourism Association (ATTA) based in the UK, recognizes exemplary community engagement in conservation and tourism across various countries worldwide.
Announcing Chem Chem's victory, ATTA President Nigel Vere Nicoll stated that numerous private tourism and conservation organizations working with communities vied for the award in eight categories recognized by the World Tourism Organization.
"After a thorough evaluation by judges and considering feedback from tourists who visited these areas, Chem Chem emerged as the overall winner for its exceptional community involvement in conservation and tourism within the Burunge WMA, benefiting the local community significantly," said Nicoll.
Other winners announced during the award ceremony in London hailed from the UK, Namibia, Kenya, and Botswana.
Speaking to journalists, Chem Chem’s General Manager, Clever Zullu, attributed their win to the concerted efforts of the government and various stakeholders in promoting tourism and conservation in Tanzania.
"We are deeply grateful for this award, which holds immense significance for our tourism and conservation efforts that heavily involve the local community," said Zullu.
He added that the victory also reflects the positive impact of President Samia Suluhu’s initiatives to open up the country to tourism, attracting thousands of tourists worldwide.
"Chem Chem will continue collaborating with the government, tourism and conservation bodies such as TANAPA, TAWA, TAWIRI, and Burunge WMA to advance tourism and conservation in this region for the benefit of current and future generations," Zullu affirmed.
Elizabeth Omboi, Chem Chem Hotel Manager, and Peter Corneli, Head of Hospitality Services, highlighted the award’s importance, noting that it would attract more tourists.
"We have been engaging the community in our tourism activities, providing support in education, health, environmental conservation, and empowering women's groups in entrepreneurship," said Omboi.
Corneli added that among the attractions for tourists visiting their hotels is the opportunity to enjoy well-prepared traditional Tanzanian cuisine and guided walking tours in wildlife areas, including visits to Lake Manyara to witness stunning sunsets and sunrises.
Benson Mwaise, Secretary-General of Burunge WMA, remarked that Chem Chem’s victory is a triumph for Burunge WMA, as Chem Chem is one of the key investors in the area.
"We are elated by this recognition. The world acknowledges our conservation efforts and community involvement in tourism and conservation, which is a significant achievement," said Mwaise.
Other Tanzanian recipients of the award include Chumbe Island in Zanzibar, Asilia Africa, and Lemala Camps and Lodges. Additional winners are African Monarch Lodges from Namibia, How Many Elephants from the UK, Gamewatchers Safari & Porini Camp from Kenya, and Let's Go Travel Uniglobe from Kenya.
The award for Chem Chem as the overall winner is expected to be presented in Tanzania soon, with the government and tourism sector stakeholders in attendance to celebrate this milestone.
The award for Chem Chem as the overall winner is expected to be presented in Tanzania soon, with the government and tourism sector stakeholders in attendance to celebrate this milestone.
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