New hope is emerging for residents of Ngumbu Village in Liwale District, Lindi Region, thanks to the construction of two modern classrooms valued at TSh 60 million.
The project, implemented by the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA) with funding from the German Development Bank (KfW) and the Government of Tanzania, is transforming education opportunities in the community located near the Selous Game Reserve.
Residents, speaking on April 14, 2025, expressed deep appreciation for the initiative, saying it will help ease overcrowding in schools, enhance students’ motivation to learn, and unlock new dreams and aspirations for academic success.
“We are stepping into a new era one where students need conducive environments to learn effectively and shape their future. The availability of these new classrooms is a major boost, and we’re grateful to TAWA and its partners,” said Faraji Saidi, Councilor of Kibutuka Ward.
TAWA’s Liwale Station Commander, Philipo Urio, said the project was financed through emergency COVID-19 response funds to support conservation initiatives in the Selous Game Reserve and Nyerere National Park.
He confirmed that the project has reached 97 percent completion and will be ready for use by the end of April.
Ngumbu Village, located within Kibutuka Ward, borders the Selous Game Reserve, making it a direct beneficiary of conservation-linked community support.
The project aims to strengthen the bond between local residents and natural resources, particularly iconic wildlife like elephants.
Liwale District Commissioner Goodluck Mlinga praised TAWA for its commitment to improving community welfare, noting that such efforts foster a healthier relationship between people and wildlife.
“This kind of support changes everything. In the past, locals saw wild animals as enemies. Today, they view them as partners in development. Not only are they embracing conservation, but they are also becoming key players in fighting poaching, as they now understand the value wildlife holds for their future,” said Mlinga.
Jaizu Abdallah, Secretary to the Member of Parliament for Liwale, also commended TAWA, stating that the construction of new classrooms at Ngumbu Primary School is a significant step towards improving access to quality education for local children.
TAWA’s Public Relations Officer, Beatus Maganja, expressed gratitude to the government and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism for creating a supportive environment that allows stakeholders to effectively contribute to conservation and development.
“We are truly grateful to our partners and the government. Their collaboration has led to impactful results, as clearly seen here in Ngumbu Village.
This is a real example of how conservation efforts can lead to meaningful social progress,” said Maganja.
