By Samkele Mchunu
In a significant move reflecting growing concerns over human rights abuses, the World Bank has halted funding for a tourism project in Tanzania. The decision comes after prolonged advocacy from the Oakland Institute, a California-based rights group, highlighting the suffering of local communities due to the project.
The $150 million project, aimed at enhancing natural resource management and tourism assets in southern Tanzania, has been under scrutiny for alleged rights violations. The Oakland Institute asserts that tens of thousands of villagers have endured serious harm as a result of the project, known as REGROW.
Initiated in 2017 with over $100 million already disbursed, the REGROW project faced suspension from World Bank financing as of April 18. The Oakland Institute, known for its focus on marginalized communities, has persistently campaigned for the cessation of funding, documenting numerous rights abuses suffered by Indigenous groups in the area.
A report released by the Oakland Institute in November accused the World Bank of failing to hold Tanzanian authorities accountable for extrajudicial killings and sexual assaults linked to the expansion of Ruaha National Park, a central objective of the REGROW project.
The World Bank, responding to mounting pressure, confirmed the suspension of further disbursements to REGROW pending an evaluation of environmental and social standards compliance. Anuradha Mittal, executive director of the Oakland Institute, hailed the decision as a victory for marginalized communities, signaling an end to impunity for rights abuses.
The Oakland Institute’s documentation revealed alarming incidents, including disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and sexual assaults allegedly perpetrated by park rangers. Additionally, government agencies were accused of seizing and auctioning off cattle belonging to herders, further exacerbating the plight of affected communities.
Tanzania’s heavy reliance on tourism for budgetary support has led to aggressive development of national parks, often at the expense of local livelihoods. The eviction of tens of thousands of Maasai from grazing lands to make way for trophy hunting has drawn international condemnation.
While the suspension of World Bank funding represents a significant step towards accountability, Tanzanian authorities have yet to comment on the matter. However, it underscores the urgent need for greater scrutiny and safeguards to protect the rights of vulnerable communities affected by development projects.
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