By The Respondent Reporter
A group of tourism stakeholders from Dar es Salaam recently visited the SaoHill Forest Plantation in Mafinga, Iringa, managed by the Tanzania Forest Service (TFS).
During their visit, they took part in a range of tourism activities that showcased the region's natural beauty and conservation efforts.
The group engaged in cycling tours and camping at various scenic spots within the plantation, including a planted forest area near the small Ruaha River, which features wetlands and captivating views.
They also explored the Kigogo Nature Forest Reserve and the Ngwazi Dam, both located within the SaoHill Forest Plantation.
In addition to these activities, the visitors had the chance to enjoy the breathtaking waterfalls, observe wildlife, discover an array of flowers, birds, and insects, and participate in fishing.
They also experienced the sunset and visited viewpoints offering stunning panoramas of the surrounding forest landscape.
Mr. Mathias David Manyanya, the trip organizer and a key figure in forest tourism, commended TFS Commissioner for Conservation, Prof. Dos Santos Silayo, for the impressive conservation efforts at SaoHill.
These efforts have transformed the plantation into an attractive destination for tourism and research activities.
Mr. Manyanya emphasized the need for Tanzanians to recognize the tourism potential within planted forests, which offer opportunities comparable to those found in natural forests.
He called for a shift in perspective, encouraging people to explore tourism options within both planted and natural forest reserves.
Accompanying him on the trip were three other stakeholders, who shared their reflections:
"When I first visited, I didn’t expect to find such hidden beauty in the SaoHill Forest Plantation. The area is incredibly picturesque.
I’ve seen waterfalls, animals, and diverse bird species. I urge my fellow Tanzanians to visit these local attractions – they will surely enjoy the experience," said John Kinyaki, a businessman and forest tourism advocate.
"Tanzania is truly blessed. I’ve explored the SaoHill Forest Plantation, and there are so many attractions, especially the camping sites, the dam, and the natural forests teeming with wildlife.
It’s crucial for Tanzanians to visit these areas and support the tourism efforts of the Sixth Phase Government, under our President,Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan," added Abiath Kivewo, a tourist.
"Many people in other regions don’t realize the beauty of our forest reserves. If they saw these places, they’d be amazed and wouldn’t believe it was Tanzania.
Now is the time for more people to visit and see the fascinating differences in these forest reserves," noted Deogratius Balthazar, a tourist and tourism advocate.
Overall, the group expressed their gratitude to Mr. Tebby Yoramu, the Chief Conservation Officer of the SaoHill Forest Plantation, for the warm welcome and the excellent guidance provided by the TFS staff during their tour.
In response, Mr. Bob Matunda, the tourism officer at SaoHill Forest Plantation, shared that the visit had sparked significant interest in forest tourism.
He believes that the exposure will encourage more stakeholders to visit the plantation and even invest in the region, due to its remarkable natural beauty and tourism potential.
The SaoHill Forest Plantation encompasses both planted and natural forests, as well as vital water sources.
It features diverse landscapes, including waterfalls, elevated terrain, wetland areas, wildlife, insects, and a variety of plant species, all of which present vast opportunities for tourism activities and educational programs.
