Tanzania’s Arusha Natural History Museum in collaboration with the Swedish embassy is expected to open a wildlife photographic exhibition next week, which is expected to attract a number of players from tourism and conservation sectors.
Dick Persson, a Swedish zoological researcher, wildlife photographer and also one of the event organizers, said on Sunday that the exhibition will focus mostly on the less known wildlife found outside the national parks.
“These include reptiles like snakes, lizards and chameleons but also mammals like mongooses, galagos, bats and a wide range of birds and insects,” said Persson, who is also expected to showcase his photos on Tanzania’s wildlife.“This exhibition is meant to raise awareness of wildlife protection among the public as well as celebrate the country’s wealth and natural heritage in wildlife,” the 72-year-old photographer said.
He said that the event will provide an opportunity for all Tanzanians to learn about wildlife through a variety of means, including fascinating photos on the country’s wildlife treasure.
Persson developed interest in wildlife since he was four-year- old, and in early 1980s, he discovered a new species of an insect named Reduvius dicki in the Libyan Desert.
The unique exhibition which scheduled to take place at the Arusha Natural History Museum on March 19 will showcase hundreds of framed wildlife photos.
Felista Mangalu, director of Arusha Natural Historical Museum, said the exhibition comes at the time when the wildlife sectors is overwhelmed with a number of challenges including habitat loss, poaching, human wildlife conflict, climate change and illegal trade.
She said poaching threatens the future of wildlife heritage and the survival of some of the most charismatic species including the “Big Five”– African elephant, white/black rhinoceros, lion, cape buffalo and leopard.
“The scientific facts become more fascinating and educative to our visitors, school classes and students, we are delighted to house these pieces,” Mangalu said.
She said that the wildlife exhibition will serve as an eye- opener to many people in Tanzania and the rest of the world.
Tanzania’s Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism Lazaro Nyalandu and the Ambassador of Sweden to Tanzania Lennarth Hjelmaker will be among the key officials who will take part in the opening of the exhibition.
