Kilimanjaro Tourism Agents Demand Action Against KIPAP’s Alleged Smear Campaign
August 17, 2024
By Adonis Byemelwa
In January 2024, the government announced a significant wage increase for porters, raising their daily pay from $10 to $15.Photo courtesy
Tourism agents in Kilimanjaro are up in arms, calling for immediate government action against the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KIPAP), which they accuse of orchestrating a malicious smear campaign that's wreaking havoc on Tanzania's hard-earned tourism reputation in Europe.
The agents allege that KIPAP is unfairly blacklisting local tour companies, urging European tourists to shun those not affiliated with their organization, and spreading baseless claims that these companies mistreat porters.
Under Tanzanian law, porters' rights are well-protected, with regulations mandating fair wages, safe working conditions, and proper equipment for all laborers involved in tourism. The country’s labor laws, including the Employment and Labour Relations Act, ensure that porters receive timely payment, and adequate rest, and are not subjected to hazardous working environments.
Despite these protections, KIPAP's actions are seen as undermining local efforts to uplift the livelihoods of porters, while simultaneously damaging the credibility of Tanzanian tour operators on the global stage. Local stakeholders are demanding that the government take swift action to defend the integrity of the industry and the rights of Tanzanian workers.
KIPAP has listed Tanzanian tour companies on its website, urging tourists to avoid those not affiliated with them—a move local agents say is driving away clients and tarnishing their businesses.
An investigation reveals that KIPAP has registered 160 companies, including 60 local ones, and is pressuring European agents to shun Tanzanian companies outside its fold. Local agents and porters' associations are questioning KIPAP’s authority to dictate tourist choices, warning that the institution is undermining the country’s tourism industry.
Gasper Meela, a Kilimanjaro-based agent, criticized KIPAP: “They have no right to oversee tour operators or decide who tourists should work with. This must stop.”
Agents express frustration as potential clients repeatedly inquire about their KIPAP membership, only to withdraw when they find out the agents aren't affiliated. KIPAP is also accused of spreading false claims that non-member agents underpay porters and provide inadequate working conditions—allegations that local operators strongly deny.
One agent, speaking anonymously, lamented, "Our President, Mama Samia, has done a tremendous job promoting our tourism, yet someone is out there tarnishing our reputation in Europe. This is unacceptable."
Tanzania Porters Organization (TPO) Secretary, Loishiye Mollel, warned that KIPAP's actions could cripple the industry: “Tourism is open to all Tanzanians who meet the requirements. KIPAP is crossing the line, and if left unchecked, it could monopolize the market, undermining local operators.”
Mollel added, "KIPAP’s project status does not grant it membership rights. It’s insulting to suggest Tanzanians can’t manage their industry without foreign intervention."
The Director of Tourism, Theresa Mugobi, is investigating the claims against KIPAP. Meanwhile, KIPAP Manager Kelvin Salla insists that the companies complaining are those failing to provide fair wages and proper conditions for porters. However, he did not address the allegations that KIPAP is advising European agents to boycott Tanzanian operators.
Tourism in Tanzania has reached a pivotal moment as the long-standing struggle of porters, who assist tourists in carrying gear while hiking mountains, has finally paid off. In January 2024, the government announced a significant wage increase for porters, raising their daily pay from $10 to $15.
This victory marks not only a financial boost for the porters but also a step toward enhancing the quality of hospitality services for mountain climbers, which is expected to attract more tourists to the country.
During a crucial meeting, Alexander Lemunge, a representative from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, emphasized the government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of porters, recognizing their critical role in the tourism sector.
Lemunge urged tour operators to implement the new agreements promptly, stressing that any challenges encountered should be reported immediately to the relevant authorities to prevent misunderstandings.
The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) has also stepped in to support this transition. Odupoi Papaa, a TRA representative, encouraged porters to obtain their TIN numbers to ensure they receive payments in line with the new agreements. He reassured them that the process is straightforward and free of charge, with TRA officials ready to assist wherever needed.
This wage increase is more than just a financial adjustment; it is a catalyst that promises to elevate the standard of service provided to tourists. Satisfied tourists are likely to become ambassadors for Tanzania, promoting the country's attractions and potentially leading to a surge in visitor numbers.
Local stakeholders are now calling for continued government intervention to ensure a fair and competitive market for all.
They argue that the success of African porters’ companies in other regions demonstrates that Tanzanians can thrive independently. Strengthening local associations and improving services are essential steps in countering external influences that might undermine Tanzania’s tourism industry.
With these advancements, the tourism sector is poised for growth, fueled by a dedicated workforce and a commitment to excellence that will resonate far beyond Tanzania’s borders.
