#Tanzania #Ngorongoro Geopark #Chinese Aid #Arusha

Revitalization of the Ngorongoro-Lengai Global Geopark

In September 2023, a group of over 50 dedicated individuals made their way to the majestic Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano, nestled within Tanzania's Ngorongoro-Lengai Global Geopark. This remarkable site is known for its stunning geological features and significant cultural heritage, and it has recently received a substantial boost from Chinese aid. The climb to the summit, at 3 am, was intense, with participants exerting themselves to reach a vantage point where they could witness spectacular natural phenomena.

As they arrived, they were greeted by molten lava flowing like liquid gold through fissures in the crater, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The combination of the fiery orange-red lava and the surrounding black volcanic ash formed what seemed like a mesmerizing river of fire, surrounded by thick steam that added to the dramatic atmosphere. However, witnessing this beauty came after a strenuous seven-hour trek, with climbers overcoming nearly 3,000 meters in altitude and steep inclines.

The purpose of their expedition was to conduct a geoheritage survey in coordination with the ongoing reconstruction project supported by the Chinese government. This initiative is pivotal for the Ngorongoro-Lengai Global Geopark, which is the first geopark in Africa built with the assistance of Chinese expertise. It aims not only to enhance the area's natural beauty but also to promote eco-tourism, conservation, education, and scientific research in this ecologically rich region.

Historically, the geopark was at risk of exclusion from the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network due to various challenges such as insufficient infrastructure, poor visitor services, and inadequate interpretative content. However, after UNESCO issued a yellow warning in 2022, the geopolitical landscape changed dramatically. During Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan's visit to China later that same year, a partnership was forged between the two nations. This collaboration led to the signing of an agreement to revamp the geopark with Chinese technical and financial support.

The commitment from the Tianjin Center of the China Geological Survey has proven instrumental in developing the geopark, as the staff conducted in-depth geological surveys needed to map out uncharted territories and redesign visitor routes. As stated by Ren Junping, director of the Southern Africa Geological Survey Cooperation Center, this project symbolizes a cooperative effort, often described as 'crossing the river by feeling the stones.' It emphasizes the importance of collaboration while respecting the environment and meeting the needs of local communities.

Significant work has been undertaken to elevate local infrastructure. The team surveyed geological sites, groundwater sources, and rock strata characteristics over more than a year. They gathered crucial data that will aid in improving visitor experiences and enhance scientific research capabilities in the environment.

Meanwhile, innovative technology has been employed, catering to sustainability and environmental respect. With frequent power outages in the region, project teams opted for solar energy solutions for their new geological museum. The museum will be designed in a style reminiscent of traditional Tanzanian thatched huts, illustrating the area's volcanic history and cultural evolution. Instead of relying entirely on high-tech systems, they implemented simple yet effective interactive displays such as volcanic eruption simulations, engaging visitors in an eco-friendly manner.

The geopark itself hosts a thriving ecosystem, providing habitat for around 300,000 wild animals, such as wildebeests, zebras, lions, rhinoceroses, and elephants, creating a robust tropical savanna. However, safety measures had to be put in place to protect both visitors and wildlife. This includes maintaining dirt paths to prevent harm to animal footprints and ensuring that all activities conclude by 5 pm to allow wildlife to reclaim their territory.

Alongside wildlife conservation, the project also seeks to honor and engage with the local Maasai community, who have lived in harmony with this land for generations. To enrich visitor experiences, guided tours showcasing Maasai culture have been introduced, offering visitors opportunities to learn traditional anthropological practices and participate in cultural activities.

In a testament to its success, UNESCO officially revalidated the Ngorongoro-Lengai Global Geopark in December last year. With the project set to reach completion by November, it stands as an exemplary model of international cooperation that not only preserves but enhances local ecosystems, community involvement, and cultural heritage. This transformative effort promises to boost tourism, create economic opportunities, and establish a legacy of sustainable practices, shining a light on the invaluable partnership between Tanzania and China.