The Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute (TAWIRI) is a government institution responsible for conducting and coordinating wildlife research in Tanzania. It was established in 1980 under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, with the main objective of providing scientific information that supports the conservation and sustainable management of the country’s rich wildlife resources. TAWIRI operates through its headquarters in Arusha and has several field stations in major wildlife areas across the country.
The institute’s mandate includes carrying out ecological, socio-economic, and biodiversity research to guide wildlife management and policy formulation. It also monitors wildlife populations, human-wildlife interactions, and the impact of climate change on ecosystems. TAWIRI’s work is particularly important given that Tanzania is home to some of the world’s most famous wildlife reserves, including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Selous.
In addition to research, TAWIRI collaborates with international organizations, universities, and conservation partners to build scientific capacity and share knowledge. It also organizes scientific conferences, publishes research findings, and trains young researchers in wildlife studies. By combining science with conservation, TAWIRI plays a vital role in protecting Tanzania’s natural heritage while supporting tourism and community livelihoods that depend on wildlife resources.