Africa-Press – Tanzania. THE Board of Trustees of the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA), led by Chairperson, retired Chief of Defence Forces, General George Waitara, has expressed satisfaction with the on-going construction of the Serengeti National Park Golf Course at Fort Ikoma, near Serengeti National Park.
Speaking during an inspection tour on Thursday, General Waitara said the board was impressed by the pace and quality of work, noting that construction on all 18 holes had reached 92 per cent completion.
Planting of Bermuda grass across the fairways is ongoing, while the power and irrigation systems are already in place.
General Waitara said the project is expected to boost sports tourism, attract international visitors and expand the country’s revenue base.
He added that it would create jobs and encourage local community participation in sports.
Consulting Engineer Richard Matolo provided a technical update, saying the golf course is part of a larger development that includes an airstrip at Fort Ikoma, a waiting lounge, guest accommodations, a clubhouse and recreational facilities such as tennis courts.
Completed works include a 5.2-kilometre access road, four water-harvesting reservoirs and TANESCO power extension from Mugumu, two deep wells, a power house, an irrigation network and parking for 100–150 vehicles.
Senior Assistant Conservation Commissioner and Serengeti National Park Chief Conservator, Stephano Msumi, said players will be able to view wildlife while playing, noting that the course will stretch about 7.065 kilometres with 72 pars across 18 holes.
Msumi added that the project will also benefit neighbouring protected areas, including Saanane Island, Rubondo and Burigi-Chato national parks, through planned water transport links on Lake Victoria, particularly near Speke Gulf and Nyatwali.
He said this would strengthen marine tourism and encourage longer visitor stays.
The TANAPA Board commended the Authority’s management, led by Conservation Commissioner CPA Musa Nassoro Kuji, and the Serengeti Park teams for their oversight of the project.
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