Morogoro, Tanzania – March 11, 2025 – A team of scientists from Russia has visited the Tanzania Forestry Research Institute (TAFORI) to explore opportunities for research collaboration.
The two-day visit aims to strengthen scientific, educational, and technological cooperation between Tanzania and Russia in forestry and environmental conservation.
The Russian delegation included experts from Saint Petersburg State Forest Technical University, Petrozavodsk University, and Voronezh State University of Forestry and Technology.
They met with TAFORI researchers to discuss joint research projects in areas such as forest ecology, management, and conservation technology.
Tanzania Forest Services (TFS) Conservation Commissioner, Prof. Dos Santos Silayo, highlighted the importance of the partnership in tackling challenges like climate change, plant diseases, and the use of modern technology in forest management.
He said, “By working together, Tanzania and Russia can exchange knowledge and use new technologies like satellites and drones to improve forestry research.”
TAFORI Director General, Dr. Revocatus Mushumbusi, said the visit would help Tanzania improve its forestry research, especially in controlling wildfires and using modern research techniques.
He added, “This partnership will introduce us to new technologies from Russia that can help us protect our forests.”
The Russian scientists shared their experience in using advanced technology to study forests. They explained how satellites and drones have helped them assess forest conditions more accurately.
They also discussed possible collaborations in tree breeding, insect research, and artificial intelligence (AI) applications in forest management.
TAFORI’s Chief Researcher, Dr. Chelestino Peter Balama, described the institute’s achievements in global forest conservation.
He emphasized the importance of protecting endangered plant species and said, “This partnership with Russia will help us improve our research and make a greater impact on environmental conservation.”
Both sides agreed to exchange experts, share knowledge, and support joint research projects. Scholarships and funding for joint studies will also be available to help improve scientific research and find solutions to environmental challenges.
At the end of the visit, Prof. Silayo thanked the Russian delegation and expressed confidence in the partnership.
“By working with Russia, we can overcome key challenges in forestry and improve conservation efforts in both countries,” he said.
This visit is part of a broader effort to strengthen international research cooperation and is expected to bring positive changes in forest conservation and environmental protection worldwide.