DODOMA: THE Tanzanian government has begun implementing a special project to enhance the conservation of 57 highly threatened tree species in the country, a move aimed at protecting the country’s biodiversity and promoting sustainable use of forest resources.
The three-year project known as Enhanced Conservation of 57 Highly Threatened Tanzanian Tree Species was launched in Dodoma by the representative of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, John Elia.
Speaking during the launch, Elia said Tanzania is blessed with rich biodiversity, but some tree species continue to face various challenges, including climate change, habitat destruction, and unsustainable use of forest resources.
He said the government has decided to take strong conservation measures after more than 376 tree species in the country were listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List as being at varying levels of risk of extinction.
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“This project is part of the government’s efforts to ensure that these species continue to be conserved for the benefit of present and future generations,” said Elia.
For his part, the Project Coordinator and Senior Assistant Commissioner and Manager of Tree Seed Biology at the Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS), Fandey Mashimba, said the project is being funded by the Franklinia Foundation and the Missouri Botanical Garden at a cost of 390,000 US dollars.
He said the project is being implemented in collaboration between TFS and the Tanzania Forestry Research Institute (TAFORI) and will involve seed collection, seedling production, scientific research, restoration of the natural habitats of the species concerned as well as capacity building for conservation professionals.
Mashimba said the implementation of the project will strengthen the nation’s efforts to conserve biodiversity and lay the foundation for saving other tree species facing extinction challenges.
The launch was attended by government leaders, forestry experts, researchers, and conservation stakeholders from within and outside the country.