NCAA Showcases Success at International UNESCO Workshop on Geoparks in East Africa

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA) is taking part in an international workshop organized to promote the establishment of UNESCO Global Geoparks in East African countries. 

The event, hosted by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in collaboration with Ethiopia’s Ministry of Tourism, is being held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from May 12 to 15, 2025.

The workshop has brought together experts in geology, cultural and natural heritage, archaeology, and policy from six East African nations: Ethiopia, Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Djibouti. 

The primary goal is to explore strategies for establishing and developing geoparks in the region, recognizing their value in preserving geological heritage and promoting sustainable tourism and local development.

During the opening session, Ethiopia’s Minister of Tourism, Hon. Selamawit Kassa, reaffirmed her country’s intention to launch its first geopark:

"Ethiopia is committed to initiating the process of establishing a geopark, given our country's rich geological heritage. Geoparks are a powerful tool for conserving natural heritage while advancing sustainable tourism and economic growth," she stated.

Representing Tanzania, Dr. Agness Gidna, Chief Conservator and Cultural Heritage Expert at the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority, presented the achievements of the Ngorongoro Lengai UNESCO Global Geopark — the only geopark in sub-Saharan Africa and one of just two on the entire continent.

"Ngorongoro Lengai Geopark stands out due to its unique blend of geological, ecological, and cultural heritage," said Dr. Gidna. "It includes Mount Lengai, the only active carbonatite volcano in the world, and the greater Ngorongoro area, which is rich in early human history and diverse tourism attractions. The geopark also supports the livelihoods of surrounding communities and promotes education and conservation."

As of now, there are 229 UNESCO Global Geoparks across 50 countries. Only two are in Africa: M’Goun Geopark in Morocco and Ngorongoro Lengai in Tanzania. This underrepresentation highlights a vast opportunity for African countries to identify, protect, and promote their geological heritage.

The workshop is expected to produce concrete national and regional strategies, and foster partnerships to strengthen the development of geoparks in Africa. These initiatives aim to enhance environmental conservation, education, community empowerment, and tourism.

Tanzania’s experience through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area continues to serve as a leading example, inspiring other countries in the region to follow in its footsteps and embrace the concept of geoparks as a model for sustainable development.