As the world marks Environment Week, the Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS) is leveraging the occasion to spotlight how its forest conservation efforts have evolved into a powerful driver of social and economic development through sustainable, eco-friendly tourism.
Speaking to reporters at the Jakaya Kikwete Convention Centre (JKCC) grounds in Dodoma, TFS Tourism Officer, Ms. Diana Ruheta, said the event serves as a strategic platform for the agency to showcase the transformative impact of investing in forests not only as environmental assets but also as hubs for tourism, recreation, education, and wellness.
“Our theme this year is Explore Life in Nature. We invite Tanzanians and the global community to view our forests not merely as sources of firewood and timber, but as vibrant spaces filled with economic and social opportunities—ranging from traditional games and eco-tourism trails to environmental learning and natural health services,” said Ruheta.
She noted that these achievements reflect the commitment of the Sixth Phase Government under President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, whose leadership has prioritized the promotion of domestic attractions and supported sustainable forest tourism as part of the national conservation agenda.
According to Ms. Ruheta, the number of visitors to forest reserves has surged from 59,609 in July 2021 to 275,723 by April 2025 an impressive increase of 362.6%.
Likewise, revenues generated from forest tourism have skyrocketed from TZS 154.9 million in June 2021 to TZS 2.18 billion by May 2025, marking a remarkable 1,311.2% growth.
“These exhibitions play a vital role in raising public awareness about green tourism and the importance of protecting our natural resources. More Tanzanians are now recognizing that forests are not just for harvesting timber they are essential to our health, jobs, education, and national prosperity,” she emphasized.
At the TFS exhibition booth, visitors are exploring various forest-related attractions and services, including forest tourism experiences, traditional healing through api-therapy, tree seedling distribution, and community-led conservation projects implemented in collaboration with villages surrounding forest reserves.
This year’s World Environment Day celebrations will run through June 5, 2025, under the national theme: “Our Environment and Tanzania’s Future Act Now: Curb Plastic Use.”
The public is encouraged to visit the TFS pavilion to experience firsthand how forest resources can be transformed into engines of inclusive and sustainable development.
