Tanzania directs institutions to prioritize the sustainable use of mangrove forests

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr. Pindi Chana, has called on all research institutions in the country to prioritize the sustainable use of mangrove forests to ensure the preservation of a healthy and sustainable environment for current and future generations.

Speaking in Dar es Salaam during the launch of the National Strategy for the Management and Development of Mangrove Forests, Dr. Chana also urged the Tanzania Forest Services (TFS) to work closely with other government bodies and communities to protect these vital ecosystems.

“My ministry will continue to emphasize the importance of conserving mangroves, but we also want mangrove conservation areas to serve as tourist attractions to boost national revenue,” said Dr. Chana.

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Highlighting the challenges facing mangroves in Tanzania, the minister noted issues such as illegal harvesting, environmental pollution, and unregulated construction — all of which are harming the ecological balance in coastal areas. She emphasized the importance of educating government leaders on mangrove conservation, with training sessions planned after they are sworn into office.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Conservation at the Tanzania Forest Services (TFS), Prof. Dos Santos Silayo, said Tanzania is joining other countries around the world in commemorating World Mangrove Day through concrete actions. He noted that, in preparation for the celebration, 5,000 mangrove seedlings were planted yesterday in the Kilongowima area as part of a national tree-planting campaign. Today, the government launched a special strategy for mangrove conservation and development, alongside a scientific symposium aimed at exchanging expert knowledge on the best practices for preserving these vital natural resources.

The Director of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) in Tanzania, Dr. Amani Ngusaru, reaffirmed the organization’s continued collaboration with the government, communities, and other stakeholders in safeguarding mangrove forests. He noted that mangrove protection has become a national priority, a move expected to improve the environment and drive sustainable development.