Forest agency introduces an awarding system for Tanzanian conservators

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS) Eastern Region has introduced a new awarding system for its conservators, a move aimed at increasing productivity, accountability, and government revenue through sustainable management of forest resources.

Speaking during the event in Dar es Salaam, the Eastern Region Commander, PCO Mathew Ntilicha, said the awards have taken into account the criteria of good governance, discipline, professionalism, professional solidarity, creativity, forest conservation, revenue collection and management of public assets.

He said the decision by TFS is in line with the directives of the Sixth Phase Government under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, which emphasizes the management of public resources with integrity, transparency, and productivity.

“We want our employees to see every day that their efforts are recognized. But more than that, we want these awards to be a catalyst to increase government revenue and ensure that forests are maintained for the benefit of current and future generations,” said Ntilicha on behalf of the Conservation Commissioner, Prof Dos Santos Silayo.

In the Innovation category, District Forest Conservator (DFC) Kisarawe Office, through the Pugu-Kazimzumbwi Nature Conservation Center, won an award for improving tourist booths, building a footpath to Minaki Dam, installing a large television to show the activities of the institution, and using the District Commissioner to promote tourism in Kisarawe.

In terms of Good Governance, DFC Ulanga won after managing the division of responsibilities effectively, submitting information on time, resolving employee conflicts transparently and strengthening cooperation with district leaders, a move that increased bee product production.

In the Forest Conservation category, DFC Mkuranga was awarded for controlling encroachment in the Vikindu Forest through special forces, strengthening the management of Mkerezange and Masanganya forests and involving citizens in conservation, which helped revive the forests that were deteriorating.

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In terms of Revenue Collection, the Dumila Special Zone Office emerged as the winner after showing an increase in collections for three consecutive years (2022–2025), a move that increased the contribution of the forestry sector to national revenue.

Furthermore, in the Public Asset Management category, DFC Rufiji was commended for monitoring the use of vehicles and drivers and reviving unused vehicles, a move that reduced costs and increased work efficiency.