Summary
Encroachment into protected areas remains one of the biggest threats to Tanzania’s forests and wildlife resources. It undermines the government’s efforts to ensure sustainable management of these valuable national assets.
DODOMA: THE Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Ashatu Kijaji, has directed conservation authorities across the country to intensify efforts to safeguard forest reserves, national parks and other protected areas from increasing encroachment and environmental destruction.
She said effective protection and conservation of Tanzania’s reserved areas are essential for preserving the country’s rich natural heritage while supporting sustainable economic growth through sectors such as tourism, forestry and wildlife conservation.
Dr Kijaji issued the directive in Dodoma during a high-level meeting with the Tabora Regional Commissioner, Mr Paul Chacha, and District Commissioners from across the region.
The meeting, which focused on the growing challenge of encroachment and destruction of forest reserves in Tabora Region, was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, the Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS), Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA), and the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA).
“Encroachment into protected areas remains one of the biggest threats to our forests and wildlife resources. It undermines the government’s efforts to ensure sustainable management of these valuable national assets,” Dr Kijaji said.
She instructed all officials responsible for managing protected areas to discharge their duties with patriotism, professionalism and accountability.
“The government will take firm legal action against any official found to have neglected their responsibilities or acted contrary to the laws, regulations and directives governing conservation,” she warned.
The minister stressed that leaders at both the national and regional levels have a shared responsibility to ensure the effective protection of natural resources within their jurisdictions.
“I direct that all resolutions reached during this meeting be implemented effectively and within the agreed timeframe,” she said.
Dr Kijaji also commended President Samia Suluhu Hassan for strengthening the country’s conservation sector by approving the recruitment of additional conservation officers, describing the move as a significant boost to the protection and management of Tanzania’s protected areas.
Speaking after the meeting, Tabora Regional Commissioner Mr Paul Chacha said the discussions had provided an important platform for developing practical strategies to curb the growing invasion and destruction of protected areas.
“The meeting has strengthened cooperation between the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism and regional authorities, which is crucial in our efforts to combat encroachment and protect the country’s natural resources,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Acting Director of Forestry in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, Mr Daniel Pancras, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to safeguarding all forest reserves across the country.
“We will continue working closely with regional authorities to ensure the effective implementation of all directives issued by the Minister,” he said.
