The Advisory Board of the Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS) has expressed satisfaction with the ongoing conservation and eco-tourism investments at the Pugu–Kazimzumbwi and Vikindu Nature Forest Reserves, citing the initiatives as a promising model for sustainable development and climate resilience.
The Board's two-day tour, which began on June 24, 2025, was led by member Ms. Piencia Kiure and aimed to evaluate progress on forest conservation and the development of nature-based tourism in these unique ecological zones located in the Coast Region.
Speaking during the visit, Ms. Kiure commended TFS for the significant strides made in improving infrastructure and enhancing visitor experience.
Notable upgrades include reception facilities, rest shelters, and a multipurpose hall designed to support both community and tourism activities.
“There is clear potential for the Coast Region to emerge as a centre for forest tourism. These reserves offer a serene environment ideal for silent tourism spaces for reflection, mental wellness, and reconnecting with nature,” she said.
Ms. Kiure added that the scale and speed of implementation under the leadership of Conservator of Forests, Prof. Dos Santos Silayo, demonstrate alignment with the national vision set by President Samia Suluhu Hassan to elevate forestry’s contribution to the economy through sustainable conservation and eco-tourism.
“TFS is setting an example of what it means to integrate environmental stewardship with economic opportunity. The Board is impressed with the level of commitment shown by the management team and the potential these sites hold to attract domestic and international visitors,” she said.
Representing the Conservator of Forests, TFS Eastern Zone Commander Mr. Mathew Ntilicha thanked the Board for its support and emphasized the agency’s continued efforts to involve local communities, expand educational outreach, and enhance conservation awareness.
“Our focus is to create distinctive tourism offerings while ensuring that forest ecosystems remain protected. We encourage Tanzanians and international travellers to explore the natural beauty and serenity these reserves offer,” said Mr. Ntilicha.
The Board also inspected strategic projects supported by global development partners, including the Enhancing Resilience of Biodiversity in Natural Forests to Climate Change Threats programme, funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through the Global Environment Facility (GEF).
During the visit, the delegation met with Kisarawe District Commissioner, Hon. Petro Magoti, who praised TFS for its proactive role in safeguarding natural resources and for advancing President Samia’s call for stronger inter-agency collaboration.
“The presence of the Board here reaffirms the Sixth-Phase Government’s commitment to inclusive governance and sustainable resource management. TFS is implementing the President’s directives with tangible impact,” said Mr. Magoti.
The tour is set to conclude on June 25, 2025, with a strategic session between the Board and TFS Eastern Zone management.
The meeting will focus on technical assessments, performance reviews, and the formulation of future directives to strengthen eco-tourism and conservation efforts.