Bio-diversity

Context: Forest resources in Rufiji district has been over-harvested for lucrative logging business. Communities in forest adjacent villages are employed in the logging industry. Some are self employed. Results of unsustainable utilization of forest resources are very clear. Locally, rainfall patterns have changed and are no longer reliable. Rise in temperature is also observed. This project intends to address this problem through the following action. (i) Impart conservation education to local communities in 12 villages that surround Rufuji forests with the view to sensitizing them to refrain from unsustainable utilization of forest resources (ii) Establish and equip voluntary surveillance groups (iii) Promote bee-keeping as alternative non-timber income generating activity. About the Proponent: The NGO was established and registered in 2005. Its main objective is to advocate for sustainable conservation and utilization of natural and cultural resources for poverty reduction and community development. Currently, the NGO is running ecotourism camps in Ngumburuni Forest Reserve, Dima Island and Lugongwe Hill in Rufiji district; promote knowledge on climate change within the context of forest conservation furthermore, it is involved in research on Monitoring Carbon Stock changes to establish annual rates of carbon loss and predict future carbon stock in Rufiji forests. Previously, the NGO conducted a workshop on climate change issues to the Rufiji District Councillors and Management. The workshop was organized after the NGO attended a Climate Change Conference in Bali, Indonesia. Project Objective: To promote sustainable conservation and utilization of forest resources in 9 villages in Rufiji district through capacity building and developing bee keeping as an alternative non-timber forest activity that generates income. Implementation Strategy: Disseminate conservation education to local communities in 12 villages through village level meetings Establish and equip voluntary forest surveillance groups Promote bee-keeping activities as alternative non-timber income generating activities. Women will be given preference. Promote establishment of household level energy farms

Tanzania