TANZANIA National Parks Authority (TANAPA) CEO Musa Kuji, has instructed officers and rangers at Ruaha National Park, stationed in the Ihefu Wetland area of Mbarali District, Mbeya Region, to protect the wetland, which is the primary source of the Great Ruaha River.

He issued the directive during a working meeting with conservation command leaders from patrol stations including Ikoga, Tagawano, Magda, Ulanga, Kiwale, and Ukwaheri—located within the park, which is the second largest in the country.

The meeting was held at TANAPA’s Southern Zone offices in Rujewa, Mbarali District, where the Commissioner emphasized the national significance of the wetland in supporting biodiversity in Ruaha National Park, as well as power generation at Mtera, Kidatu, and Mwalimu Nyerere dams.

“The Great Ruaha River remains extremely vital to the nation because 60 percent of its water is crucial for the survival of plant and wildlife species within the park, which is of great importance,” said Commissioner Kuji.

The Commissioner is currently on a national tour of all parks to engage officers and rangers, with the aim of enhancing conservation security, promoting tourism, and strengthening community collaboration.