Keeping a hyena or a python at home without permits can land you in trouble
The Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA) has issued a warning against keeping wild animals as pets without proper permits, citing legal consequences including fines and imprisonment. Officials emphasized that the law prioritizes human safety while encouraging citizens to report wildlife sightings to experts rather than taking action themselves.
Why it matters
This reflects ongoing efforts in Tanzania to balance wildlife conservation, public safety, and the economic benefits derived from tourism.
Dodoma. The Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA) has warned the public against keeping or possessing wild animals without valid permits, saying the practice is a criminal offence punishable by fines, imprisonment or both.
The warning follows the circulation of social media videos showing some people keeping wild animals, including pythons, monitors and hyenas.
TAWA Information Officer Beatus Maganja said citizens are important partners in wildlife conservation and that the success of the sector depends on cooperation between communities and relevant authorities.
He said the Wildlife Conservation Act aims not only to protect animals but also to safeguard human life and safety.
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