Govt unveils plan to establish natural forests in every district

TANGA: MINISTER of State in the Vice President’s Office (Union and Environment), Dr Ashatu Kijaji, has announced government’s plan to establish forests in every district, as part of a broad environmental conservation strategy.

The initiative aims to enhance biodiversity, combat climate change and enable districts to participate in carbon trading, while also empowering local communities to manage forests sustainably and gain economic benefits.

Dr Kijaji made the remarks during her working visit to Kilindi district of Tanga region, where she inspected and launched various development projects. She explained that the programme is designed to promote collective tree-planting efforts within the districts that will enable faster participation in carbon trading compared to individual initiatives.

“The successful planting of these trees will help mitigate the effects of climate change, including increased temperatures and unpredictable rainfall patterns,” Dr Kijaji said.

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She emphasised the programme’s focus on involving owners of large tracts of land, encouraging them to allocate five to ten acres for tree planting. Tanga Regional Commissioner (RC), Dr Batilda Burian, highlighted challenges of deforestation, particularly due to illegal logging.

She noted that educational initiatives are being implemented to raise awareness among residents about preventing these activities.

Dr Burian reported that Tanga boasts over 700,000 hectares of forest, including three tree farms, but the region faces issues related to encroachment, livestock grazing and charcoal production. Local authorities are actively working to address these challenges.

In addition, she pointed out the region’s engagement in mangrove farming, which plays a vital role in marine conservation.

Mangroves help protect coastal areas from damage during soil erosion events, making them an essential part of the environmental conservation efforts in the region