The Minister of Livestock and Fisheries, Ashatu Kachwamba Kijaji, has commended the Tanzania Forest Services (TFS) Agency for its dedicated efforts in promoting sustainable forest management.
She underscored the importance of collaborating with local communities to ensure secure grazing areas, environmental protection, and the stimulation of rural development.
Speaking after visiting the TFS pavilion at the World Environment Day celebrations held at the Jakaya Kikwete Conference Centre (JKCC) grounds in Dodoma, Minister Kijaji highlighted how TFS’s work directly supports the livestock sector and the livelihoods of communities living near forest reserves.
During the visit, Chief Conservator Karim Solyambingu from TFS headquarters briefed the Minister on ongoing initiatives.
These include educating villages about the designation of grazing areas, encouraging the use of national ranches, and distributing free tree seedlings to promote land conservation.
Meanwhile, Chief Conservator Kassim Ally, head of the TFS pavilion, explained that TFS’s participation in the event aligns with its core mandate to educate the public on the sustainable and responsible use of forest resources to foster national development.
“This year’s theme is: ‘Our Environment and the Future of Tanzania Act Now to Control Plastic Use.’ TFS is actively involved in raising awareness about forest conservation, combating environmental degradation, and supporting communities through tree planting campaigns, grazing education, and alternative health services such as apitherapy,” said Ally.
He also encouraged the public to actively engage with the exhibitions running from June 2 to 5, 2025, which aim to boost community involvement in environmental protection, reduce plastic consumption, and promote alternative development strategies.
“We invite all Tanzanians to visit our pavilion at JKCC to learn more about conservation efforts, access traditional medicine services, and see firsthand how forests can be a vital resource for sustainable development for present and future generations,” Ally emphasized.