Dar Firm Claims to Be Rightful Owner of Patent of Safari Vehicle Bodies

 

The Management of RSA Limited has dismissed as baseless claims by the Arusha-based Hanspaul Automechs Limited over winning a court case relating to the right to design and build specially converted safari vehicle bodies, the so-called "War Bus."

In a statement issued in Dar es Salaam, the company's management maintained that RSA Limited is the sole owner of both the patent and certificate of registration of industrial designs registered through African Regional Intellectual Property Organisation (ARIPO).

Such registration, according to the statement, was in respect of converted safari vehicle used in the tourism industry, which gives RSA Limited the sole right to the exclusion of any other person; the right to design and build specially converted safari vehicle bodies such as Toyota, Nissan and Land Rover.

It is stated that in Tanzania, only RSA Limited has a patent duly registered and protected under the laws issued by the Registrar of Patents in Tanzania in respect of the safari vehicle bodies. The same is intact todate and enjoys full protection of the laws.

Furthermore, RSA Limited owns Certificate of Registration of Industrial Designs issued by the ARIPO over the industrial designs in respect of converted safari vehicle bodies that has legal protection in 15 countries within Africa including Tanzania.

The statement states that through Civil Case No.20/2014 in High Court Arusha Registry, Hanspaul Automechs Limited has asked the court to revoke RSA's patent but its application was dismissed by the court in favour of RSA Limited through the High Court Ruling dated May 4, 2015.

It is disclosed further that the case before the High Court Commercial Division involved Copyright of engineering drawings and has nothing to do with either the right to design safari vehicle bodies or extension of Nissan and Toyota vehicles as inaccurately reported.

The Hanspaul Automechs Limited has neither Patent nor Industrial Design Certificates issued under ARIPO or any other recognised legal body and therefore has no legal right to design safari vehicle bodies, which is an infringement of the Patent and Industrial Designs belonging to RSA Limited.

"It is further important to note that the High Court Commercial Division did not pronounce that Hanspaul Automechs Limited has a right to design and build specially converted safari vehicle bodies," read part of the statement.

With a reputation in the industry for 20 years, RSA Limited is known to be the pioneers of the Tourist Safari Vehicle bodies and is highly recognised by its esteemed clientele base throughout Africa.

"RSA Limited thanks its clientele for the support and promises continued development to deliver the best quality products in the market," it is stated in the statement.

Tanzania: Makonde Carvings Enliven Tourism

 

Arusha — Mtwara may be located far from Arusha but the country's tourism industry pivoted around the Northern Circuit will never be the same without added value from souvenir antiques sculptured in the southern region.

"It has become a tradition that after any Safari experience in either Serengeti or Ngorongoro, tourists need to top up with artefacts from curio shops," revealed Mr Kilian Mwakulomba, the Manager in-charge of African Galeria, the largest curio shop located at Manyara section, between Mto-wa-Mbu and Karatu.

As it happens, large and small curio shops keep cropping up and lining along the entire road stretch from Arusha via Makuyuni junction, all the way to Loduare gate, the entrance to both Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Serengeti National Park. Each of the establishment depends on the tourist vehicles taking visitors to and from various attractions.

"During peak season more than 100 tour vans drive into this curio shop for visitors to buy souvenirs ranging from Makonde sculptured traditional arts and crafts, locally made printed T-shirts, wooden trays and cups and Maasai attires," revealed Mr Mwakulomba, pointing out that it is actually the products from Mtwara that top the bill.

Mwalukomba was of view that, it has now become a tradition for tourists coming back from the parks to crown each safari trip with arts and crafts souvenirs bought from curio shops.

The two tourist destinations of Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park, with Lake Manyara thrown in between, account for more than 600,000 tourists per year.

Already international parcel shipping and handling companies such as DHL, UPS, TNT and Fedex have opened branches inside a number of curio shops to ensure that tourists who buy bulk consignments of arts and crafts can be assisted to ship them to whichever destination, right from the store itself.

However, for another curio shop operator, Mr Asantaeli Mbise of 'Lake Manyara Wayside Gallery,' there has been large exportation of arts and crafts items from Arusha to overseas countries of late, something which may jeopardize the business in future.

"In the past it was tourists carrying a few pieces of traditional crafts with them, but now we are seeing the products being transported on large trucks, put into shipping containers and sent floating to China, Asia, Europe and the United States," said Mr Mbise, pointing out that once the Makonde arts saturate overseas markets nobody will be buying them here again.

"And we have started to feel the pinch, the number of tourists who drop by at the shop to buy souvenirs has reduced while those who eventually come, either complaining or sneering that the same products could be bought at much cheaper prices abroad," revealed the Arts Gallery operator.

Tanzania to Use Drones in a New Anti-Poaching Initiative

 

Tanzania is to deploy drones in Tarangire National Park in a new anti-poaching initiative. This comes after the Ministry of Tourism gave the nod, following a trial deployment over Mkomanzi National Park.

"I would like to inform you that the ministry has authorised the proof of concept to go ahead," wrote Tourism Permanent Secretary in an April 21 letter to Tanzania Private Sector Foundation.However, this initiative could face a hurdle as Tanzania National Parks Authority (Tanapa), the custodian of all 16 parks in the country insists the 2014 ban on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in the parks is still on.

"As of November 6, 2014, the use of the UAVs of different sizes for any purposes is not allowed in the national parks for security reasons," said Tanapa in a statement. Covering an area of 2,600 square kilometres, Tarangire National Park is best known for its large herds of elephants. An initial six-month deployment of Super Bat DA 50 and the required ground and monitoring equipment at the park is expected to provide real time information.

The operation will be carried out by Bathawk Recon, a Tanzanian start-up. Tanzania People's Defence Force will be attached at each station where the drones will be deployed. "We have selected the Super Bat DA-50 in the six-month operation that will include, a fully functioning operation, trained operational personnel and a ranger protocol programme," Bathawk Recon director Mike Chambers said.

According to Mr Chambers the kind of drone has day and the night capability, which will enable surveillance to be deployed any time, any place in the protection area.

Wider reach

"This will enable us to survey greater areas and protect larger parks and reserves. The concept will find poachers and illegal intruders and lead rangers to the location," Mr Chambers added.UAVs have been used in anti-poaching strategies South Africa, Kenya, Namibia and Nepal. Poaching threatens Tanzania's multibillion dollar tourism industry. Over the past six years, more than 80,000 of the country's elephants have been slaughtered for their ivory.

16 Reasons Why You Should Visit Zanzibar

Zanzibar’s reputation as an island paradise is not an exaggeration. Zanzibar is actually a whole group of islands – two large islands –Ungoja and Pemba plus other small islands. The beautiful island features an entire eastern coast and miles of sandy pristine beaches. If you are a beach or sun lover and you have a thing for snorkeling, Zanzibar is your destination. There you will find amazing beaches, vast coral reefs, relaxed atmosphere and seafood dishes that will make your holiday a memorable one. Below are 20 reasons why you should visit Zanzibar, so you need to start planning now.

1. Unique Cultural Mix 

Zanizibar reflects the cultural mix of people that emerged from eras of trade relations with different countries. Africans, Arab, Indian, Persian and European influences have taken root in copious chapters of Zanzibar’s history.

 

 

2. Joy and laughter

Zanzibar is a destination for all, it is a place where you meet the astonishing people you never thought existed a mix of friendly, fun, calm, philosophical, extreme, wonderful and lovely people who are so full of life. Every day you spend in Zanzibar, you’ll be at peace with yourself, make friends, laugh and enjoy life to its fullest.

3. Fascinating History and Vibrant Culture
Zanzibar is a special place steeped in rich history and vibrant culture. The archipelago has been inhabited for over 20, 000 years and its position has made the island a major port. When you visit this beautiful destination, you will learn a lot about its intriguing  history.

 

4. Pristine and Scenic Beaches
Zanzibar offers scenic and pristine beaches, which makes visitors to get comfier. There are so many beaches to choose from. The beaches are clean and exquisitely beautiful. You will definitely enjoy the peaceful lagoons, go surfing, relax by the beach or explore the surroundings and you will surely love the perfect temperature of the water, refreshing and soothing.

 

5. Super Romantic
Zanzibar is a romantic destination, especially for those who desire to spend quality time romancing with their sweethearts. If you are planning to get married, honeymoon or to renew your vows, Zanzibar is an amazing place to do everything.

 

6. Unspoiled Weather and Climate
Zanzibar has ideal holiday weather all through the year. There is such a comfortable weather, even when it’s hot; the cold breeze from the coast cools the temperature. The islands are warm throughout the year. An average of about 7 hour sunshine occurs in Zanzibar daily. Weather is just perfect and you will love it.

 

7. Dhow Safaris
Enjoy Dhow Safaris by cruising and sailing in a Swahili boat. Discover the best vantage points in Zanzibar via Dhow Safari. The boats are hand-crafted and are operated by trained and professional crews.

 

8. Spice Tour
Another interesting thing to do in Zanzibar is to go on a Spice Tour. Zanzibar cloves and spices are the source of its agricultural wealth. Discover a blend of colours, smell the blend of flavours and taste the spices – nutmeg, cumin, ginger, turmeric, curry and pepper, also learn more about why spices are important in Zanzibar.

9. Culture Musical Club
This is the best place to enjoy the real Zanzibar Taarab music. Culture Musical Club is one of the most creative orchestras played in Swahili style. You will always get to see several performances with a lot of people gathered to enjoy the music. The club is located at Vuga Road, next to Florida Guest House in Zanzibar.

10. Beautiful and Luxury Accommodation
Accommodation in Zanzibar is no problem. There are lots of hotels, guest houses and self-catering apartments that will suit your preference. Zanzibar has some of the most luxurious hotels and resorts, campsite retreat and beach rentals for every choice.

 

11. Stone Town
Stone Town is known as the cultural heart of Zanzibar. When you arrive at this town, the first thing that comes to mind is ‘ancient’. However, the city looks old with lively bazaars, winding alleys, primeval mosques and magnificent Arab houses but it is also a very interesting place to visit. There are so many things to see in this ancient city; from the Old Fort to the beautiful beaches in the city. You will definitely have a swell time.

 

12. Museum and Galleries
If you have weakness for discovering the history and culture of places, you will surely be glad to visit the historic museums and galleries in Zanzibar. There you will learn about bygone cultures and present context of Zanzibar. You can visit places like; Zanzibar Gallery, Palace Museum, Peace Memorial Museum and so on.

 

13. Coffee and Tea
Enjoy Africa’s best coffee in Zanzibar. The best coffee in Africa is from Kilimanjaro and you will find coffees with different flavours in Zanzibar.

 

14. Shopping
If you are a shopping freak, you will love Stone Town. Stone Town is a shopping dreamland with heaps of goods such as jewellry, bags, accessories, clothes, local crafts and many more. Zanzibar has something for everyone!

 

15. Food Markets
The Darajani market is the traditional food market in Stone Town. There you will find vegetables, seafood, spices and fruits. The most enjoyable food market is the Forodhani Night Food Market located at Forodhani Gardens. The best place to enjoy a healthy dinner. There you will find different types of tasty foods such as seafood kebabs, grilled meat, fried potatoes, chapatis, salads and many other delicious meals. The market has a celebratory atmosphere, you’ll surely enjoy yourself.

 

16. Giant Tortoise at Prison Island
Take a boat trip to Prison Island, 20 minutes ride from Zanzibar and see the giant tortoise. These tortoises are gigantic and you can get close to them. Some of these tortoises are said to be about 300 years old. It’s definitely a place to visit.

 

 

Continental Tourism Fete in Durban South African

The INDABA, hosted by South African Tourism takes place in Durban, Kwa Zulu-Natal at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre (Durban ICC) and the Durban Exhibition Centre (DEC). runs from May 7 to 9, 2016.

Indaba means ‘gathering’. It grew out an important conference held by the izinDuna (principal men) of the Zulu or Xhosa peoples of South Africa. Most of the East African Community (EAC) member states are regular participants.

According to a press statement, over 500 buyers from around the globe are expected at  INDABA end of this week. The trade show organizers will provide exhibitors with direct access to some of the top buyers, leaders and policy makers,  in one centrally located venue  and over a three-day period.

Africa’s longest running travel trade show remains the single most focused platform bringing thousands of tourism players to converge and do business.

“Hosted buyers are selected through South African Tourism’s country offices based in the various markets worldwide. Non-hosted buyers on the other hand, attend INDABA on their own accord and on their own budget,” Sthembiso Dlamini, the acting CEO of South African Tourism said.

“Both groups of buyers are of paramount importance to INDABA which guarantees them an exceptional variety of unique destinations and tourism products to consider for inclusion in their inventory of destinations. INDABA meets these needs in its entirety by allowing for these quality business transactions to happen effectively and efficiently,” she said.

Through the online diary and matchmaking system, buyers are able to assess beforehand the full buffet of exhibitors participating, and schedule appointments with those who meet their immediate requirements. This saves time and ensures that the right connections are made.

“A well-considered and stringent selection benchmark for buyer participation at INDABA ensures the renowned trade show attracts only the best global buyers. These are buyers who are genuinely interested in doing business with quality travel brands from the rest of the African continent, are eager to showcase Africa’s appeal as a tourist destination and ultimately grow their businesses”, reads part of a press statement.

The 2015 show recorded an impressive 7704 delegates, 1595 of whom were international buyers representing 66 countries, including amongst others: Brazil, China, Germany, India, Australia, New Zealand, Italy and Germany.

INDABA 2016 will  give the world’s media an unprecedented opportunity to come and gather information and stories about the African and South African tourism sector.

Tourism has the potential to transform the African continent with its ability to bring about economic growth and create employment. Tourism INDABA has been bringing together Africa’s tourism leaders, policy makers, global buyers and travel media under one roof for 36 years.

Tanzania - a Sparkling Tourism Jewel

More than 44 per cent of Tanzania's land area is covered with game reserves and national parks. There are 16 national parks, 29 game reserves, 40 controlled conservation areas and marine parks.

Mount Kilimanjaro, the Roof of Africa, is also located in Tanzania. Tanzania envisages creating a friendlier tourism climate that would see the number of arrivals climbing from the current 800,000 to 1.6 million visitors annually by the end of this year.

This is encouraging news as the nation's share of earnings from tourism remains bleak. A few years ago, the then Deputy Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Mr Lazaro Nyalandu, said recently that while Tanzania has some of the best tourist attractions in the world, the number of visitors still remains low and national earnings from the sector unsatisfactory. This stark reality needs remedial action.

It is unthinkable that a country that has 16 attractive wildlife sanctuaries should fail to shunt in millions of lovers of nature. But while we praise the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism for its quest to double the number of tourist arrivals we tend to forget the stark fact that the nation has too few hotel beds and other facilities. And most of its feeder roads are impassable.

During peak tourism seasons, especially between June and November, tourist hotels fill too full and the nation falls embarrassingly short of beds. Tanzania has about 15,000 beds in tourism facilities against a requirement of 1.6 million.

The situation calls for a scramble to construct tourist hotels and other facilities if the target is to be met comfortably. Neighbouring Kenya has more than 28,000 tourist beds on the Indian Ocean coastline alone.

The city of Nairobi has more than 15,000. This means that Kenya, which logs 1.5 million tourist arrivals every year, will keep sprinting ahead in the tourism industry if too little or nothing is done to sell Tanzania as a tourist destination more vigorously.

Tanzania has dedicated more than 42,000 square kilometres, more than one third of its territory, a uniquely high proportion of land to the formal protection of its wildlife as National Parks and Game Reserves despite its growing population pressures.

On January 6, last year, The New York Times awarded Tanzania the 7th position among 45 top destinations to visit. The tourist industry currently supports 27,000 jobs and generates 25 per cent of Tanzania's foreign exchange.

Kenya Burns Elephant Ivory Worth $105 Million to Defy Poachers

 

NAIROBI, Kenya — What do you do when you have more than $100 million worth of ivory sitting around, just collecting dust?

You burn it, of course.

That is what Kenya did on Saturday, when President Uhuru Kenyatta lit a huge pyre of elephant tusks as a way to show the world that Kenya is serious about ending the illegal ivory trade, which is threatening to push wild elephants to extinction. “No one, and I repeat, no one, has any business in trading in ivory, for this trade means death — the death of our elephants and the death of our natural heritage,” Mr. Kenyatta said. In the past few years, heavily armed poachers, using military tactics, have wiped out tens of thousands of elephants across Africa. Many of the tusks enter an underground pipeline to Asia, especially China, where ivory is used to make eyeglass frames, combs, statuettes and other trinkets.

Wildlife experts say the street price of a kilogram of ivory is around $1,000. On Saturday, Kenya set alight 105 metric tons of ivory — its stockpile of confiscated and recovered tusks. It was the most ivory ever destroyed at one time, representing 6,000 to 7,000 dead elephants.

At current prices, and without including the rhino horns also burned, that is a $105 million bonfire.

Richard Leakey, one of Kenya’s leading conservationists, said he was “humbled, sad and encouraged.”

“We shouldn’t have to burn 105 tons of ivory and 1.5 tons of rhino horn,” he said. “It is a disgraceful shame this continues.”

This was not the first time that truckloads of tusks had been burned. Mr. Leakey presided over a large ivory bonfire in Kenya in 1989. Since then, many other countries have done the same to make the statement that ivory is worthless — unless it is on an elephant. For the first time in days, a pale blue sky stretched over Nairobi. Heavy rains had soaked the city in the past week, causing deadly floods.

But the mountains of ivory, even though they had been sitting out in the rain, went up fast. Minutes after Mr. Kenyatta stuck a flaming torch inside one of the pyramids of tusks, columns of gray smoke curled out, wafting up toward the evening sky.