LocationsSustaining Tanzania’s Forest Legacy: Building Climate-Resilient Nature Reserves for Generations to Come
July 30, 2025
BUREFOBI Project Steering Committee members
Tanzania’s forests are more than just trees—they are vibrant ecosystems teeming with life, culture, and opportunity. From the misty heights of Mount Hanang to the lush lowlands of Pugu Kazimzumbwi, the country’s 22 Nature Forest Reserves (NFRs) represent some of the most biologically rich landscapes on the African continent.
But these natural treasures face escalating threats—climate change, deforestation, wildfires, habitat degradation, and invasive species are undermining forest ecosystems and the livelihoods of communities who depend on them. In response, the Government of Tanzania, through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism (MNRT) and the Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS), has joined forces with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), to implement a six-year initiative titled “Building the Resilience of Forest Biodiversity to the Threats of Climate Change” (BUREFOBI).
The project, started the implementation early 2024, spans nine critical Nature Forest Reserves and aims to improve forest governance, strengthen biodiversity, and increase the adaptive capacity of forests and forest-adjacent communities. Over 15,000 people stand to benefit directly from improved forest management, infrastructure, training, and income-generating opportunities.
What Has Been Achieved So Far?
Biodiversity and ecological assessments are underway in Essimingor, Nou, and Hassama Hill reserves, providing crucial data for developing climate-resilient Forest Management Plans.40 invasive alien species have been identified in Pugu-Kazimzumbwi, forming the basis for targeted forest restoration and invasive species control.
Twelve Village Land Forest Reserves (VLFRs) have been established, covering more than 4,000 hectares and managed by trained local communities in villages surrounding Uzigua NFR.
465 community members (135 women and 330 men) have received training in sustainable forest management and governance.
Infrastructure investments are ongoing, including:
o Five ranger stations and tourism information centers under construction
o Two resting bandas and picnic sites built in Pugu-Kazimzumbwi
o A 12-kilometre road under rehabilitation to improve access for forest patrols and eco-tourism activities
These investments not only boost forest protection and tourism but also generate jobs, improve access, and create alternative livelihoods for forest-edge communities.
Strategic Oversight and Accountability
The 3rd Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting held in Arusha brought together national and regional leaders, development partners, and technical experts to review progress, align strategies, and plan ahead.
“This is not just a conservation project. It is a commitment to future generations,” emphasized Mr. Shigeki Komatsubara, UNDP Resident Representative. “Together, we are building a climate-resilient Tanzania—one forest at a time.”
“We are proud of the progress made. This project is a model of inclusive conservation—blending science, community, and policy for impact,” added Prof. Dos Santos Silayo, Conservation Commissioner, TFS.
Commissioner of Police Leonard Wakulyamba, MNRT Deputy Permanent Secretary, reaffirmed government ownership: “Our forests are a national treasure. We remain fully committed to their protection through diligent and transparent implementation.”
The project is also aligned with Tanzania’s national climate and forest policies, as well as global commitments under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including climate action, gender equality, and life on land.
A tranquil paddle through the lush waterways of Pugu Kazimzumbwi Forest Nature Reserve — a haven of biodiversity just outside Dar es Salaam.
The Road Ahead
While progress is significant, challenges such as weather-related delays and limited availability of qualified contractors have affected some construction timelines. However, measures are in place to ensure rapid implementation in the coming quarter. Looking ahead, the BUREFOBI project will deepen its focus on:
Forest restoration and reforestation
Expansion of VLFRs and alternative livelihoods
Gender empowerment and youth inclusion in conservation
Enhanced data systems and digital tools for forest monitoring
With continued collaboration among government institutions, communities, and development partners, Tanzania’s forest ecosystems can become powerful symbols of resilience and sustainability in a changing climate.
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