Biodiversity Conservation for Resilient Communities
The Project team participating in tree planting exercise with Primary School pupils and communities at large.
In Nkomolo II Village of Nkasi District, Rukwa region, Mary Ernest Shauri recalls the critical state of their environment just four years ago. "We were on the brink of disaster," she says, reflecting on the severe water shortages and rampant deforestation that plagued the area. The community, dependent on the Lyamba lya Mfipa Forest, faced land degradation and a decline in agricultural productivity, threatening their economic resilience and heightening their vulnerability to climate change.
Despite the rich natural resources in Sumbawanga and Nkasi Districts, irrational harvesting led to reduced river flows, unpredictable seasons, and forest degradation. "Farmers and pastoralists began fighting for water during the dry season," Mary recalls. "Illegal harvesting of forest products was rampant, leading to violent land conflicts and widespread chaos. Some feared that the forest, a crucial ecosystem, would be wiped out, accelerating desertification and significantly reducing food production."
The Project team participating in tree planting exercise with Primary School pupils and communities at large.
Transformation Through Community-Based Conservation
Today, the scene is remarkably different. Rivers flow normally, and forests have begun to recover, thanks to the USAID Resilient Communities Governance Project, implemented by LEAT, RUSUDEO, and local communities under village governments. This five-year project, funded by USAID, focused on community-based conservation, empowering locals to lead biodiversity protection efforts by integrating local knowledge and setting their priorities.
"The success of community-based conservation lies in its dual goal of poverty alleviation and environmental and natural resources management," says Hana Lupembe, the Chief of Party. "By improving the tenure security of communities and supporting conservation we enhance human welfare and reduce the pressure on biodiversity. Over time, these communities build climate and economic resilience, leading to better lives."
As the project nears its end, concerns arise about sustaining its benefits. Rukwa Regional Natural Resources Advisor, Nicholaus Mchome, explains, "We've built the foundations for sustainable resource use and climate resilience through education, awareness, and community participation. These benefits have become catalysts for continued conservation efforts."
Women Leading the Way
Women in the community have particularly benefited from the project. They have learned to diversify their income sources through small businesses, gaining economic independence and raising their social status. "Women now own land with legal proof and secure tenure,"says Veronica Simon Kiatu of Kizungu Village. "They run community conservation banks and earn a steady income, giving them the confidence to ask questions and vie for leadership roles."
Overcoming Challenges
A key factor in sustaining these gains is the legal ownership of land. Secure tenure has empowered community members to protect their rights and understand the value of their land. "With high awareness about conservation, legal land ownership helps build climate adaptation and economic resilience," Mchome emphasizes. Veronica Simon Kiatu also highlighted the importance of continuous education. "Education on conservation should be ongoing, not just for pupils but for all community members. People tend to forget, and regular reminders are necessary."
Despite the progress, challenges remain. Florence Magambo, Village Executive Officer for Nkwilo village, calls for self-reliance in tree planting. "We need to learn how to prepare tree seedlings ourselves instead of relying on project officials," she urges. "The demand for seedlings is growing, and producing our own will ensure sustainability."
Elia Wiston Ndabila of Kalumbeza A village points out that termites have affected the survival rate of tree seedlings. "We need insecticides to protect the seedlings from termites," he suggests, emphasizing the need for practical solutions to local challenges.
The Project team participating in tree planting exercise with Primary School pupils and communities at large.
Education: The Key to Sustainability
The involvement of schools in conservation efforts is a promising development. Maria Zahoro, an environment teacher at Mazoka Secondary School, notes, "Students are our agents of change. They participate in tree planting and learn about conservation, passing this knowledge to their families and communities."
As the project winds down, sustaining its benefits is crucial. "We must continue to manage our land and resources wisely," Mary Ernest Shauri insists. "If we let up, we risk falling back into poverty and environmental degradation."
