Residents of Makibo Village in Nyahua Ward, Sikonge District, have taken a major step toward economic empowerment after receiving 580 customary land ownership certificates under the Drylands Sustainable Landscapes Impact Program (DSL-IP), coordinated by the Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS).
The certificates, handed over on Saturday, provide villagers with legal recognition of their land, giving them confidence to invest in agriculture, livestock keeping, and forest-based businesses while promoting environmental conservation.
Sikonge District Commissioner Thomas Myinga said the initiative will directly improve livelihoods and encourage sustainable land use.
“These land certificates are more than just documents. They are tools that enable our communities to invest, grow their businesses, and protect our forests. Secure land encourages responsible land management and strengthens household incomes,” he said.
The USD 6.8 million (TZS 16.8 billion) project, running from 2023 to 2027, covers Sikonge, Urambo, and Kaliua districts in Tabora Region, and Mlele District in Katavi Region.
Acting Assistant Conservation Commissioner at TFS, Dr. Zainab Bungwa, explained that DSL-IP also supports Forest and Farm Producer Organizations (FFPOs), enabling communities to participate in sustainable forest management and commercial activities.
“Communities are at the center of this project. They are both caretakers and beneficiaries of the forests,” said Dr. Bungwa.
“We are also establishing ranger posts, using drones for forest surveillance, and developing beekeeping facilities, seed warehouses, and water infrastructure to support local livelihoods.”he added
Residents expressed optimism, noting that the certificates give them long-term security to invest in farming and forest-friendly businesses.
Obed Katonge from the National Land Use Planning Commission (NLUPC) urged villagers to safeguard their certificates.
“These certificates represent your future. Do not lend them to others, as that violates the law,” he warned.
By granting land titles, the DSL-IP project is not only protecting the environment but also transforming communities turning legal recognition into opportunities for sustainable economic growth and stronger household resilience.