Tanzania’s Ngorongoro-Lengai Geopark Revived with Chinese Support

In September 2023, over 50 climbers gathered at the Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano in Tanzania’s Ngorongoro-Lengai Global Geopark to conduct a crucial geoheritage survey. These climbers, comprising both Chinese and Tanzanian nationals, spent more than seven hours ascending the volcano to observe molten lava flowing through the crater. Their expedition aimed to gather essential data as part of a reconstruction project funded by the Chinese government, aimed at revitalizing Tanzania’s first and only global geopark.

The Ngorongoro-Lengai Global Geopark, situated in northeastern Tanzania, is recognized for its significant geological features, including the iconic Ngorongoro Crater and the active Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano. It spans approximately 12,000 square kilometers across the districts of Ngorongoro, Karatu, and Monduli. In 2018, UNESCO designated it as a global geopark, but by 2022, the site received a yellow warning due to inadequate infrastructure and visitor information. To rectify these issues, China stepped in, offering technical and financial support.

During Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan‘s visit to China in November 2022, she and Chinese President Xi Jinping signed a project agreement to address the challenges facing the geopark. This initiative, backed by the Chinese Embassy in Tanzania and the China Geological Survey, includes both technical assistance and physical infrastructure improvements led by the China Railway 25th Bureau Group.

Ren Junping, director of the Southern Africa Geological Survey Cooperation Center of the Tianjin Center, highlighted the project’s complexity. “We are responsible for the entire workflow, from planning and implementation to construction,” he stated. The team faced challenges balancing local needs and environmental respect, as well as logistical difficulties due to frequent rainfall.

The investigation of geological heritage resources formed the project’s foundation, providing data essential for spatial planning, scientific expeditions, and developing a comprehensive database of geological and cultural resources. Over the past year, the team conducted extensive surveys, examining geological sites and groundwater sources, while also interpreting remote sensing data.

Project member Sun Kai emphasized the project’s unique demands. “This project requires more comprehensive capabilities than domestic geological heritage work,” he remarked. It not only encompasses geological surveys but also involves creating visitor information for public outreach.

To enhance the visitor experience, the team has developed a tourist-oriented service platform utilizing China’s information technology, which integrates resource data with interpretive and information systems. Nearly 300 signs, written in English, Swahili, and Chinese, have been installed throughout the geopark. A field interpretation system is also operational, offering information in seven languages, including French and Arabic.

The new geological museum, a vital component of the geopark, draws architectural inspiration from traditional Tanzanian thatched huts. It features solar panels to power interactive exhibits and is designed to educate visitors about volcanic activities and human evolution in the region. Wu Xingyuan, another project member, noted the museum’s significance and the unique experiences it offers to visitors.

The geopark serves as a vital habitat for over 300,000 wild animals, including elephants and lions. To protect these creatures, the project has established strict operational hours, ensuring the area is free of human activity by 17:00.

In a bid to honor the indigenous Maasai community, the project team organized tours that allow visitors to engage with the Maasai way of life, including traditional food and dance experiences. Additionally, a one-month talent training program has been implemented for local residents, equipping them with geological knowledge and skills in monitoring geological disasters.

Following extensive efforts, UNESCO revalidated the Ngorongoro-Lengai Global Geopark in December 2024, recognizing the progress made through the Chinese aid project. The project is on track for completion by November 2025.

Zhang Jianping, vice-president of the Global Geoparks Network, emphasized the importance of the project for enhancing local infrastructure and economic opportunities. “It has boosted cultural exchanges and ecological protection,” he stated, underscoring the geopark’s rich geological and biological resources.

Zhang Zhonghui, a senior engineer with the Geological Society of China, described the project as a model for international cooperation. He noted that it has not only helped Tanzania develop unique cultural and tourism products but also achieved long-term community empowerment through training and livelihood improvements.