Porters told to serve diligently, attract tourists

DEUS NGOWI in Moshi

PORTERS should strive to offer high quality services to entice tourists to return and boost the country’s earnings. Kilimanjaro Regional Commissioner (RC) Said Meck Sadiki, speaking to porters at their five-day training here yesterday, described them as key stakeholders in promoting tourism.

He said currently the sector contributes over 18 per cent to the national income but the government wants to see it growing through wooing more tourists to the country. “Tourism is a critical sector in our national economy because it contributes over 18 per cent, which we however want to boost further,” said Mr Sadiki.

The RC noted that more tourists would easily be attracted if porters play well their part when serving the guests in different national parks and tourist attractions in the country.

“You are one of the most important groups that take care of the tourists. You should therefore keep in mind that you have been entrusted with huge responsibility to promote the country and its wonderful environment and increase number of tourists,” the RC told porters.

He, however, raised concern over recent complaints against some dishonest and undisciplined porters, with foul language to guests. The RC also condemned the drunkards and environment pollution, especially on the way up and down Mount Kilimanjaro.

He also decried the tendency of trekking the mountain without putting on proper wears. Mr Sadiki said that the government will not entertain any misconduct, with adverse effect on the tourism sector.

Natural Resources and Tourism Minister Professor Jumanne Maghembe, recently called on Tanzania National Park Authority (Tanapa) and other tourism stakeholders to work hard in attracting tourists. He said he was not happy with the current situation, noting that the number of tourists was declining.

He accused porters of consuming too much alcohol and failing to serve tourists diligently.