Preserving Tanzania’s forest: A collective effort

DAR ES SALAAM: JAY Inslee once was quoted, “What is a fish without a river? What is a bird without a tree to nest in? What is an Endangered Species Act without any enforcement mechanism to ensure their habitat is protected? It is nothing.”

The Governor of the US state of Washington made the statement regarding the importance of the Endangered Species Act, in which 99 per cent of listed species have avoided extinction since its inception in 1973.

Apparently, Tanzania, known for its vast forested land spanning 48.1 million hectares, is taking significant steps to ensure such sustainable forest management is implemented. Though, Tanzania’s forests are grappling with a perilous situation as indigenous trees face the risk of extinction, hope is high that with collective responsibility, we shall see the light at the end of the journey.

The Tanzania Forest Services Agency’s (TFS) Conservation Officer, Mr Reuben Magandi, raised the alert during a specialised two-day tailor-made training for journalists aimed at enriching understanding of corridor conservation issues held in Bagamoyo District, Coast Region, last week, February 15th, this year.

The event was part of the United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) ‘Tuhifadhi Maliasili’ “Preserve Natural Resources” project in partnership with the Environmental Journalists of Tanzania (JET), with the goal of reducing risks to biodiversity and animal mobility in Tanzania.

Mr Magandi, who also saves in a Joint Port Control Unit-Container Control programme, emphasised that concerted efforts are required to protect and conserve vital resources, particularly species such as Dalbergia melanoxylon ‘Mpingo’, Osyris lanceolata ‘Misandali’, and Pterocarpus tinctorius ‘Mikurungu’. “These trees are under siege due to activities like unchecked logging and charcoal production within protected forests,” he said.

Mr Magandi further emphasized the gravity of the problem by stressing how important these trees are to Tanzania’s ecological equilibrium.

He emphasized that these species, which are protected by the 2014 Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) accord, greatly help the nation. Literally, CITES is a global agreement among governments to regulate or ban international trade in species (wild fauna and flora) under threat.

According to Mr Magandi, their disappearance could lead to environmental degradation, transforming sections of the country into deserts. Thus, to counter these threats, Magandi detailed ongoing initiatives to restore natural vegetation. Collaborative efforts between the Tanzania Forest Services Agency, various institutions, and communities are underway.

The USAID ‘Tuhifadhi Maliasili’ project, facilitated by JET, plays a pivotal role in supporting these endeavours. In line with that, he also emphasised the importance of public education on responsible environmental practices. Initiatives such as tree planting, seedling distribution to communities and schools, and the promotion of alternative income sources like beekeeping and honey harvesting are actively being pursued.

He also highlighted international collaborations and agreements focused on preventing the indiscriminate harvesting of vulnerable trees. These partnerships aim to ensure the sustained existence of endangered plant species for future generations.

Speaking about environmental issues, Mr Magandi emphasised the serious danger that wildfires bring to protected areas. Strategies for preventing and controlling fires must include community involvement and education.

Authorities want to reduce the risk of uncontrolled wildfires by educating communities and arming them with information to safeguard native trees.

The question is- are we happy to suppose that our grandchild may never be able to see these indigenous trees except in a picture book?

Director of JET John Chikomo, emphasised the pivotal role of journalists in raising awareness about environmental conservation.

He stressed that journalists are essential stakeholders in educating the public about the importance of preserving and protecting the environment. JET, established in 1991, has been conducting training programmes for journalists, and its current project, funded by USAID, focuses on the seven wildlife corridors in Tanzania.

Twenty journalists, representing both government and private media from mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar, were trained under this initiative. They pledged to disseminate information on the critical importance of environmental conservation, acknowledging that environmental degradation could lead to various consequences, including climate change.

According to them, the precarious situation facing Tanzania’s indigenous trees demands urgent and collective action. Through collaborative efforts, awareness campaigns, and sustainable practices, the country aims to safeguard its invaluable natural resources. The commitment of trained journalists underscores the role of the media in fostering environmental conservation and sustainability.

According to reports, Tanzania, which is wellknown for having 48.1 million hectares of forested area, appears to be making considerable efforts to guarantee sustainable forest management. With woodlands covering 93 per cent of the forestland and catchment forests inhabiting 7 per cent, the country recognises the importance of preserving its natural resources.

However, such efforts face challenges due to unsustainable practices like agricultural expansion, wildfires, livestock grazing, and illegal harvesting. To combat these issues, Tanzania has implemented various strategies and plans, including the Forest Policy Implementation Strategy (2021-2026) and the National Strategy to Combat Poaching.

Additionally, the legal framework, under the Forest Act No. 14 of 2002, emphasises sustainability and mandates the establishment of forest management plans. Forest crime, including illegal harvesting and transportation, often involves organised criminal networks.

To address this, Tanzania adopts a multi-agency approach, collaborating with security apparatuses, law enforcement agencies, environmental organisations and local communities.

Information sharing between agencies at national and international levels enhances efforts in tracking, investigating, prosecuting, preventing, and combating forest crime effectively.

While enforcement measures are necessary, Tanzania also recognises the importance of community engagement, addressing root causes, and ensuring transparency and accountability. By embracing innovation, new technologies, and methodologies, the country aims to strengthen conservation and anti-poaching efforts, contributing to the long-term sustainability of its forests.

Fighting illegal wildlife trade, particularly in forests, requires collaborative action and a common objective among stakeholders. Platforms like workshops facilitate public-private collaboration, building a united front against forest crime in Tanzania.

Together, through collective efforts and dedication, Tanzania strives to protect and preserve its invaluable forests for future generations.