Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan Allows Traditional Healers to Own Government Wildlife Trophies

• The Tanzanian government has allowed traditional healers to legally own government wildlife trophies.
• Traditional healers can now possess live or dead wild animals and animal parts, including wildebeest tails, lion fat, and other wildlife products.
• The Wildlife Conservation Act provides the legal basis for the transfer of trophy ownership from the government to traditional healers.
• A special government trophy shop has been established in Mwanza City, while a wildlife meat shop is already open in Arusha.

The decision marks the first time since Tanzania attained independence in 1961 that traditional healers have been allowed to legally own such trophies.

The Tanzanian government has taken a significant step towards recognizing the importance of traditional healing practices by allowing traditional healers to legally own government wildlife trophies. This move, announced by the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA), marks a major shift in the country's approach to conservation and economic development. According to TAWA Conservation Officer Mr Omary Mhando, President Samia Suluhu Hassan approved the request after traditional healers presented their appeal during the Bulabo cultural celebrations of the Sukuma community. The decision is seen as a victory for traditional healers who have long faced challenges in accessing and possessing government trophies used in their practices.

The Wildlife Conservation Act, Chapter 283, Section 4(1), provides the legal basis for the transfer of trophy ownership from the government to traditional healers. Under this provision, the current owner must submit a formal written application and pay prescribed fees before transferring ownership. The application form costs 10,000/-, while licence fees vary depending on the type of business and category of trophies. The transfer fee is 50,000/- and the ownership certificate costs 50,000/-, excluding Value Added Tax (VAT). This new framework aims to promote economic opportunities from wildlife resources and support the growth of the national economy.

The decision to allow traditional healers to legally own government trophies is expected to create new economic opportunities for citizens. TAWA has established a special government trophy shop in Mwanza City, while a wildlife meat shop has already been opened in Arusha. The Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority continues to create opportunities for citizens through wildlife farming and access to the government trophy shop established two years ago. Mr Mhando urged citizens to seize these opportunities for their benefit while contributing to the growth of the national economy.

Lawyers and compliance officers should note that traditional healers can now legally possess government trophies, including live or dead wild animals and animal parts, with the owner submitting a formal written application and paying prescribed fees. This development may impact businesses operating in the wildlife sector, particularly those involved in trophy ownership and trade.

Source: Original reporting via Daily News