Tanzania features a vast network of over 850 protected areas covering roughly 43.7 percent of its land.
DODOMA: THE Tanzanian government has reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside key conservation partners to strengthen the protection of its natural reserves while simultaneously addressing the escalating issue of wild animals and pests encroaching on farmlands and residential areas.
This pledge was made by Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, Mr. Hamad Hassan Chande, during a meeting in Dodoma with a delegation from the non-governmental organization Six Rivers Africa.
The discussions focused on developing comprehensive strategies to enhance the safeguarding of the nation’s protected areas.
“We extend our gratitude to all partners for their ongoing collaboration in conservation efforts and for their financial support, which is crucial for facilitating conservation operations and boosting the tourism sector,” stated Mr. Chande.
He added that: ” As a government, we remain open at all times to further strengthening and advancing the conservation sector across the country.”
In response, the Chairman of the organization’s board, Mr. Glenn Turner, expressed appreciation for the continued partnership with the Tanzanian government.
He highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at monitoring wildlife movements and biodiversity within Nyerere and Ruaha National Parks.
These programs employ advanced data systems utilizing GPS collars, alongside investments in critical infrastructure development.
Six Rivers Africa has been instrumental in funding a range of conservation activities.
Their support includes providing essential equipment such as vehicles and boats, constructing ecological centers, improving communication infrastructure within protected zones, rehabilitating and building airport facilities, and initiating community-benefit projects for populations residing near conservation areas.
Protected Areas in Tanzania
Tanzania features a vast network of over 850 protected areas covering roughly 43.7 percent of its land, including renowned national parks like Serengeti, Ngorongoro Conservation Area (a UNESCO site), and Kilimanjaro.
These areas protect immense biodiversity, spanning savannahs, alpine forests, and marine reserves like Mafia Island.
Key protected areas in Tanzania include:
National Parks: Serengeti, Ruaha (largest), Kilimanjaro, Lake Manyara, Tarangire, Mikumi, Katavi, and Mahale Mountains.
Conservation Areas: Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Game Reserves & Controlled Areas: Selous Game Reserve (part of Nyerere National Park), and numerous game-controlled areas.
Marine Parks/Reserves: Tanga Coelacanth Marine Park, Mafia Island Marine Park, and Mnazi Bay-Ruvuma Estuary Marine Park.
Nature Forest Reserves: Kipo Forest Reserve, Kitulo National Park (botanical focus).
These areas are managed for biodiversity conservation, with many supporting tourism and acting as habitats for the “Big Five” (lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, rhino).
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