Evolution and Status of Paricipatory Forestry Management in Tanzania and future direction

Abstract

The key note paper provides an overview about the evolution and status of PFM in Tanzania with a reflection on future direction. The paper begins by highlighting the importance of forests and woodlands in enhancing community livelihoods not only in Tanzania but also across Africa. The paper also examines how PFM emerged including implementation of decentralization policies at the local level, which also led to Local Government reforms as well as restructuring of district and regional administrative structures. Evolution of PFM is a result of government’s inadequate capacity to protect and manage forest resources. Evolution and adoption of PFM strategies partly was due to implementation of the Forest Policy of 1998 supported by the Forest Act Cap 323 [R.E. 2002] which provided needed legal backing for engaging key stakeholders including local communities in conservation and management of forests and woodlands. In addition, the paper examines how PFM has shaped the villagers’ perceptions about conservation and likely benefits although the challenge remains on benefit sharing especially where Joint Forest Management initiatives are concerned. Despite some challenges, the importance of local communities’ engaging in forest conservation cannot be overemphasized. In conclusion, the paper highlights on the need to scale up PFM efforts by involving as many local communities as possible and also making sure that the issue of benefit sharing is resolved within a foreseeable future for the benefits of all.

Keywords: Benefits sharing, colonial rule, decentralization, forest conservation, income, livelihoods, Joint Forest Management.