Mlele District Council has received TZS 210 million from tourism hunting activities managed by the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA).
The funds, which represent 25% of profits from hunting, are part of TAWA's efforts to support conservation and community development.
Speaking on December 14, 2024, District Executive Director Ms. Sigilinda Modest Mdemu said the funds were used for important projects.
These include building a dispensary in Songambele Village at TZS 150 million, making desks for schools, and constructing village offices. The money also supported training programs for natural resources officers.
“In the last two years, our council received TZS 210 million from TAWA. This money has greatly helped us complete key community projects in villages near wildlife conservation areas,” Ms. Mdemu said.
Mlele District Commissioner, Hon. Alhaj Majid Mwanga, said local communities are directly benefiting from tourism activities.
Investors in hunting blocks also contribute $5,000 annually to nearby villages, which is used to fund development projects.
TAWA’s Public Relations Officer, Beatus Maganja, urged all councils receiving similar funds to use them responsibly.
“These funds must be spent wisely on development projects so communities can see the real benefits of conserving wildlife,” he said.
Rukwa Game Reserve’s Community Outreach Officer, Christopher Mlimbila, called for community support in protecting wildlife and fighting poaching.
He asked residents to avoid human activities in protected areas to ensure long-term conservation success.
Kaulolo Village Executive Officer, Mr. Hussein Rashid Mwita, said his village has seen the benefits of working with TAWA. He noted that TAWA’s support helped complete a village office that would have otherwise taken years to finish.
“We are committed to supporting TAWA because we see the positive impact of their work in our community,” Mr. Mwita said.
This collaboration between TAWA and local communities highlights the importance of wildlife resources in driving development and improving livelihoods.