By Happiness Shayo - Njombe
The Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Hon. Dr. Pindi Chana (MP), has underscored the government’s commitment to working closely with forestry sector stakeholders to enhance the sector’s contribution to the national economy.
In her remarks on March 22, 2025, during a key meeting held in Njombe, Dr. Chana emphasized that through strategic collaboration and sector reforms, the government aims to bolster the forestry industry's role in driving the national GDP and improving the livelihoods of Tanzanians.
The gathering brought together senior officials from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, key stakeholders, and forestry experts to discuss pressing issues and seek solutions to challenges facing the sector.
Dr. Chana highlighted the progress made through such forums, noting that many crucial issues have been successfully addressed. She reassured the stakeholders that the government is dedicated to resolving ongoing challenges to ensure the sector thrives.
"As a government, we take pride in this platform because many significant issues have been resolved through its discussions. For challenges that some stakeholders believe remain unresolved, I want to assure you that my ministry is actively working to find solutions," said Dr. Chana.
A central theme of the minister’s address was the government’s ongoing efforts to create an enabling environment for forest sector stakeholders.
This includes not only facilitating the efficient management of forest resources but also ensuring that businesses in the sector can operate profitably.
To this end, Dr. Chana stressed the need for continuous review and enhancement of policies and regulations to align with the evolving goals of the National Forest Policy of 1998, which has been undergoing implementation in recent years.
One of the highlights of the reforms has been the review of key regulations that govern the forest sector. Dr. Chana pointed out significant strides made in improving the regulations concerning the export of forest products, the management of firewood sawmill operations, and the oversight of forest products and services.
These updates, such as the TSN 807 of 2024, Government Notice No. 62 of 2025, and TSN 132 of 2025, aim to streamline forest sector operations and enhance their efficiency.
Moreover, the Minister provided important clarifications on regulations for beekeeping, which were recently announced under Government Notice No. 131 of 2025.
She also addressed the amendments to regulations governing the production, transport, and sale of alternative charcoal, as per Government Notice No. 85 of 2024. These initiatives reflect the government’s broader goal of diversifying and improving forest-based industries while ensuring sustainability.
In addition to regulatory reforms, Dr. Chana urged stakeholders to focus on increasing the value-added production of forest products.
She stressed that by processing raw forest materials into high-value products locally, Tanzania could not only create more employment opportunities but also generate greater income for citizens, investors, and the economy as a whole.
This approach would, in turn, strengthen the value chains of forest-based industries, contributing to long-term economic stability and growth.
The meeting was attended by various notable figures, including the Secretary of the Tanzania National Business Council (TNBC), the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr. Hassan Abbasi, Deputy Permanent Secretary CP Benedict Wakulyamba, Director of the Forestry and Beekeeping Department, Deusdedith Bwoyo, and Commissioner for Conservation from the Tanzania Forest Service (TFS), among other stakeholders.
The event also served as a reflection on the recent observance of International Forest Day and the National Tree Planting Day, highlighting the theme "Increasing the Value of Forest Products for Sustainable Resource Management for Current and Future Generations."
Through this continued partnership and policy reforms, the Tanzanian government is positioning the forestry sector not only as a driver of economic growth but also as a key player in the sustainable management of the country’s natural resources.
With a focus on value addition, regulatory clarity, and stakeholder collaboration, the future of the forestry sector looks promising, offering significant benefits for the economy and the people of Tanzania.