TOURISM ATTRACTIONS

One of the dominant physical features in Newala district is the Makonde Plateau which rises in a sheer escarpment at about 812 metres above sea level. The escarpment itself is between 200 – 300 metres high and stretches in an almost unbroken line across the horizon. There are several natural gorges in Newala District, one called “Shimo la Mungu” in Kiswahili, which literally means “God’s Gorge” located near Newala town, and one known as “Chilolelo Gorge” located in Miyuyu Village in the northwest of the district. Both have vast species of flora and a few of fauna. They constitute a portion of the district’s attraction for tourism. Chilolelo gorge is believed to be the source of Mbwinji River which was the main source of water for Chilangala division before the water scheme was washed away by floods in 1992. The Ruvuma River is a broad waterway that is home to hippos and crocodiles and serves as a means of transport as well. The historic Old Boma in Newala Town, built by the Germans in the early 19th century is well worth a visit. The plateau part of the district is widely covered by cashew nuts plantations and other food and cash crops. The natural vegetation has to a big extent been disturbed by human activities and still exists only along the Makonde escarpment, an area which was declared by the Local Government Authority as a reserve for water resources. The total area with natural vegetation is estimated to be about 26,379 ha while planted trees cover about 223 ha.