ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN IN TOURISM TANZANIA
AWOTTA is a non-profit organisation established in 2011 to help empower women to reach their true potential, gain equality of opportunity and attain financial security within the Tanzania tourism sector
A Personal Message from
Mary C. Kalikawe – Chairperson
Thank you for visiting our website today.
Tanzania is one of the world’s fastest-growing destinations, and we look forward to welcoming all international visitors to our homeland and serving our people through the emerging domestic tourism market throughout the year.
In 2025, we welcomed over 5 million international visitors and proudly supported our tourism sector in generating an estimated US $5 billion—which contributed to the development of tourist services, our natural wonders and our people.
Through the continued development of tourism, Tanzania will prosper and AWOTTA remains committed to playing a key role in making this happen. Women make up 50% of our population, and we will work tirelessly to ensure they have a fair and equal opportunity to achieve their aspirations within the tourism sector.
We are driven by the popular saying “Nani kama Mama”, which means that the children of Tanzania look to the next generation of women to lay the ground that will lead to their prosperity. We are proud to embrace this tradition within the tourism industry, and I invite you all to join us today in taking on this responsibility.
AWOTTA IS PROUD TO REPRESENT TANZANIAN WOMEN IN TOURISM ON REGIONAL, NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL STAGES
Celebrate International Women’s Day on
8th March 2026
Theme: ‘Give to Gain’
The IWD celebrates 125 years of celebrating women across the world.
The 2026 Give To Gain Campaign encourages a mindset of generosity and collaboration.
Give To Gain emphasises the power of reciprocity and support. When people, organisations, and communities give generously, opportunities and support for women increase. Giving is not a subtraction; it’s intentional multiplication. When women thrive, we all rise!.
So, together, let’s Give to Gain across Tanzania to help forge gender equality through abundant giving.
A personal message from
Mary Kalikawe, Chairperson AWOTTA
On this International Women’s Day, we join the world in honouring the strength, resilience, and vision of women everywhere.
At a time when unrest and uncertainty weigh heavily on communities across the globe, we are reminded of the unique role women play as peacemakers. Women nurture dialogue, foster understanding, and build bridges where division threatens to prevail. In tourism and beyond, we embody the spirit of connection—bringing people together, celebrating diversity, and promoting harmony.
As the Association of Women in Tourism Tanzania, we reaffirm our commitment to empowering women, amplifying their voices, and championing their leadership in shaping a more peaceful and inclusive world.
Let us continue to stand tall, united in purpose, and unwavering in our belief that women are not only the custodians of culture and heritage but also the architects of peace.
Happy International Women’s Day.
With solidarity and hope.
Mary
A message from AWOTTA member
Elizabeth Mwakajila Ayo
CEO & Founder, Mrembo Safaris
When I was thinking about naming our travel company, so many ideas came to my mind. But deep in my heart, I knew I wanted a name that reflects the beauty, strength, and resilience of women, especially African women.
I wanted a name with meaning. A name that represents not just a business, but a mission of service, creating unforgettable experiences for our guests, and making a positive impact in our community.
My heart led me to the giraffe, an animal I truly love. The giraffe symbolises beauty, elegance, resilience, and height. It stands tall and sees far. It reminded me of my dream: to see African women rise economically, stand confidently, and grow beyond limits, just like the giraffe.
That is how the giraffe became our symbol and logo, and how Mrembo Safaris meaning “Beauty” was born.
Today, I write this to celebrate all women around the world during this special month. You are beautiful like a giraffe. You are strong. You can rise higher and go further in anything you choose. You are capable of greatness.
Happy Women’s Month
May you believe in yourself and take bold steps forward. You are a game changer.
With love, Elizabeth
RISING WOMAN 2026
The Honourable Zakia Meghji
This year marks the 20th anniversary of Tanzania appointing its first female Minister of Finance, the Honourable Zakia Meghji.
Her story stands as a living testament to the long and demanding journey of women in leadership in Tanzania.
AWOTTA is proud to have the Honourable Zakia Meghji as a long-term member and passionate supporter of women in tourism.
AWOTTA Members Shine
at Serengeti Awards 2026
At this year’s Serengeti Awards, held on 31 January 2026 in Arusha, winners were celebrated across multiple categories in tourism, recognising excellence in service, customer care, safety, conservation, and sustainable practices.
Among the standout winners were AWOTTA members Zainab Ansel, CEO of Zara Tanzania Adventures, who was named Best Mountain Climbing Tour Operator, and Lady Tour Guide Tetula Okama.
The Serengeti Awards is Tanzania’s national recognition platform for excellence in conservation, sustainable tourism, and cultural heritage, organised by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism.
Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba also used the occasion to call for stronger private–public collaboration to boost Tanzania’s tourism competitiveness.
World Tourism Day
27th September 2026
More information about this year’s theme and celebrations when released.
FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Mary Kalikawe (Chairperson)
phone: (+255) 07594 24933
email: mkalikawe@awotta.org
