The World Bank has put a pause on its financial support designated for the development of tourism in southern Tanzania following accusations of killings, sexual assault, and forced displacements.
This decision comes in the wake of ongoing scrutiny over the expansion plans for Ruaha National Park, a project backed by the World Bank. The expansion aimed to double the size of the park as part of the Resilient Natural Resources Management for Tourism and Growth (Regrow) initiative.
A spokesperson for the World Bank expressed deep concern over the allegations of abuse and injustice associated with the Regrow project in Tanzania. Citing potential breaches of policy during project implementation, the bank has opted to suspend further disbursement of funds immediately.
Tanzania was slated to receive an additional $50 million, having already been allocated $100 million for various developments, including infrastructure such as roads, viewing areas, and visitor centers, as well as investments in wildlife monitoring and security measures.
Reports from The Guardian in September 2023 highlighted findings by the US-based think tank, the Oakland Institute, documenting a range of abuses by Tanzanian rangers against villagers accused of encroaching on the national park. These abuses included the killing of cattle herders and fishers, confiscation of livestock, and rape of women.
The Oakland Institute applauded the decision to suspend funding, emphasizing its long-overdue nature. The Institute had first alerted the World Bank to potential violations of safeguarding policies in April 2023.
Anuradha Mittal, Executive Director of the Oakland Institute, underscored the significance of the decision, signaling to the Tanzanian government that there are repercussions for rights abuses aimed at promoting tourism. Despite the ongoing investigation, the Tanzanian government proceeded with plans to redraw park boundaries in October, potentially displacing 21,000 people.
The Oakland Institute’s research indicates that abuses persist, including the recent killing of a 21-year-old cattle herder and the seizure and sale of thousands of cattle.
Mittal stressed the importance of addressing the concerns of local communities affected by the expansion plans and urged the World Bank to focus on remedying the harms caused by ranger violence and livelihood restrictions.
The suspension of funding underscores the gravity of the situation and highlights the need for accountability and transparency in development projects aimed at promoting tourism while safeguarding human rights and local communities.
