DR. KIJAJI, MINISTER FOR NATURAL RESOURCES AND TOURISM OF THE UNITED REPUBLIC OF TANZANIA MEETS LATF SECRETARIAT
30th Jan 2026, Arusha, Tanzania
The President of the Lusaka Agreement Governing Council, Hon. Dr. Ashatu Kijaji, who is also Tanzania’s Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, has expressed her desire to see more countries join the Lusaka Agreement in order to strengthen collective efforts to combat poaching and the illegal trade in wildlife and forest resources for the benefit of both present and future generations.
Dr. Kijaji made the remarks during a meeting with the Secretariat of the Lusaka Agreement Task Force (LATF) in Arusha. The meeting aimed at enhancing mutual understanding on the implementation of decisions of the Lusaka Agreement Governing Council, which plays a critical role in the protection of natural heritage across the region.
During the meeting, the LATF Director, Mr. Edward Phiri, took the opportunity to congratulate Hon. Dr. Kijaji on her appointment as Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, as well as on her assumption of the Presidency of the Lusaka Agreement Governing Council. The LATF team also briefed the Hon. Minister on the Lusaka Agreement, its mandate, ongoing activities, and key decisions of the Governing Council.
Dr. Kijaji emphasized that it is the commitment of the Sixth Phase Government under the leadership of H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania and the Chief Custodian of Natural Resources, to ensure the effective protection and sustainable management of the country’s natural heritage. She affirmed her commitment to work closely with the LATF Secretariat to ensure the successful implementation of the Council’s decisions and objectives.
Meanwhile, Mr. Phiri commended the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania, particularly the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, for its continued support and strong cooperation with the Lusaka Agreement Task Force. He noted that this collaboration has significantly contributed to the effective execution of the organization’s mandate.
The Lusaka Agreement brings together member states committed to combating poaching and the transboundary illegal trade in wildlife and forest products. The Agreement was established in 1994, with Tanzania officially joining in 1996. Current member states include Tanzania, Kenya, Zambia, Congo Brazzaville, Lesotho, and Liberia, while signatory states include Eswatini, Ethiopia, and South Africa.
