Turning Dodoma green: A vibrant project

DODOMA: IN the heart of Tanzania, the capital city of Dodoma is embarking on an ambitious journey to transform its predominantly arid landscape into a verdant oasis.

This robust environmental conservation project, spearheaded by the Tanzania Forest Fund (TaFF) and implemented by the Habari Conservation Organisation, aims to revitalise the region’s ecology, combat the effects of climate change, and enhance the quality of life for local residents.

With a vision to establish a sustainable green belt, Dodoma is poised to become a pioneering model of environmental stewardship in the continent.

Tanzania’s Dodoma Region, known for its dry climate and sparse vegetation, is the unlikely setting for a groundbreaking initiative that seeks to bring life back to the land.

“The government has made it a priority to protect, supervise, and develop our forests as part of a comprehensive strategy to combat climate change,” Dr Tuli Msuya, the Executive Secretay of TaFF, shared during a recent interview with the Daily News.

This project is not just about planting trees, it’s a holistic approach aimed at fostering a sustainable environment that can support diverse flora and fauna, as well as flourishing human communities.

Dr Msuya’s vision is clear: the establishment of a 25-hectare forest in the Njedengwa area of Dodoma is a significant milestone towards realising a green capital. “This is not our first endeavour. Our journey began with the ‘Green Belt’ project initiated during the time of the now-defunct Capital Development Authority (CDA), but our current efforts are focused on creating a fully green city,” she explains.

The urgency of addressing climate challenges in Dodoma cannot be overstated. As temperatures rise and weather patterns become increasingly erratic, the need for carbon sinks has emerged as a vital part of the solution. “The trees we plant in Dodoma represent a crucial strategy against the growing threat of climate change,” Dr Msuya asserts, underscoring the ecological importance of their initiative.

At the forefront of the conservation efforts is Ferdinand Nyamonge, Project Coordinator of the Habari Conservation Organisation. Under his stewardship, the organisation has made remarkable progress, with 20 hectares of the designated area already filled with newly planted trees. The area has 25 hectares.

“In just three years, we’ve planted over 6,000 trees, creating temporary employment for more than 40 local residents,” Mr Nyamonge reveals, emphasising the dual benefits of the project: environmental restoration and job creation.

This employment aspect is particularly crucial for the local community, many of whom depend on the project as a source of income. Anna Sylivester, a 30-year-old mother of five, is one such individual who has found hope through this initiative.

“This project has changed our lives,” Anna asserts. “It has provided us with daily bread and a sense of purpose. My family’s livelihood has improved, and we feel proud to contribute to a cause that enhances our environment.”

Anna’s sentiments are echoed throughout the community, where expectations for the future are high. “We want to be remembered as contributors to this initiative,” she says, reinforcing the collective aspiration to see Dodoma flourish under the canopy of a more vibrant ecosystem.

The success of the project can largely be attributed to the strong collaboration between various stakeholders. While TaFF is the primary funding body, additional support has come from the Public Sector Social Security Fund (PSSSF) at the project’s inception.

“We are continually seeking partnerships, and we’ve begun discussions with UCSAF for further sponsorships,” Nyamonge reveals.

Such collaborations not only enhance financial support but also bring expertise and innovation to the project. The integration of local knowledge and resources is pivotal for sustainability, as it ensures that the community plays an active role in the project’s ongoing success.

Local government officials are equally enthusiastic about the initiative, recognising its potential to provide long-term benefits for the community. Amos Mwaluko, a local government representative overseeing Msangale Street, reflects on the positive changes brought about by the project since its launch in July of the previous year.

“We expect to take pride in being part of this transformative initiative. The forest we are building will provide employment opportunities in the future, particularly concerning its maintenance and protection,” Mr Mwaluko explains.

The involvement of local governance guarantees that the environmental conservation efforts are aligned with community needs, ensuring that benefits are not just environmental but also economic.

This synergistic approach promotes a sense of ownership among residents, who are encouraged to care for and protect their developing green spaces.

The aspirations tied to the environmental project extend beyond just tree planting. The overarching goal is to establish a fully functional green infrastructure that promotes biodiversity, mitigates urban heat, and enhances the overall quality of life for residents. Dr Msuya envisions Dodoma not only as Tanzania’s administrative capital but as a model of sustainability that addresses the threats posed by climate change.

“We need more than just a stand of trees; we need to create a green city where nature and urban life coexist harmoniously,” she states.

The planting of trees serves as the groundwork for broader ecological initiatives that may include urban gardens, community orchards, and educational programs to raise awareness about environmental issues.

Despite the significant strides made, the project faces challenges typical of large-scale environmental initiatives. The unpredictabilities of weather patterns, socio-economic factors, and the need for continuous community engagement represent hurdles that must be navigated carefully.

However, in managing the situation, there is a water well which remains constant.

Moreover, as the project scales, the necessity for ongoing funding and resources becomes increasingly critical. Mr Nyamonge stresses the importance of education as a tool to overcome these challenges. “We need to ensure that our community understands the long-term benefits of these trees, not just for the environment but for their own livelihoods,” he explains.

Workshops and outreach programs are being developed to foster knowledge-sharing and instill a sense of stewardship among community members.

The voices of those impacted by the project highlight the multifaceted benefits that arise from environmental restoration and the target remains in what brings fortunes, the heart of Dodoma, a remarkable transformation is taking root.

For the first time, community members are coming together to plant a forest, an initiative that promises not only to enhance the local environment but to uplift the lives of many families.

The air is filled with hope and excitement as residents engage in a project that symbolises their collective dreams for a greener, more sustainable future.

Ester John, a spirited 48-year-old mother of three, shares her optimistic vision. “I can see my life going smoothly because of this project,” she beams, emphasising how the forest initiative has the potential to secure a better life for her family.

“We earn a living, and we are glad that our daily bread remains instant,” she reflects, showcasing her pride in the Dodoma Green Initiative, which she helped to initiate. For Anna, the forest is more than just trees; it represents stability and prosperity for her children and husband.

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Agness Sandasabya, a wise 53-year-old matriarch, echoes Anna’s sentiments. “I can now serve my family in all three basic needs,” she states firmly, highlighting how this project has transformed her life.

The new opportunities have enabled her to ensure her children receive an education, a meal on the table, and the care they need to thrive. Agness’s gratitude is palpable; she sees the forest not only as a backdrop to daily life but as a catalyst for progress that regenerates hope.