The Tanzania Forest Fund (TaFF) has spent a total of TZS 3.1 billion to finance 74 forestry-related projects in Tabora Region, as part of efforts to promote sustainable forest management and improve community livelihoods.
Acting Chief Executive Officer of TaFF, Dr. Tuli Msuya, made the remarks while opening a training session for more than 10 beekeeping groups benefited from the Fund’s grants.
He emphasized the need for beneficiaries to use the funds responsibly and in strict compliance with the grant agreements ensuring objectives of forest conservation and community development are achieved.
“These funds are public resources and must be utilized to support projects that bring tangible benefits, particularly those contributing to the conservation, management, and sustainable use of forest resources,” said Dr. Msuya.
He explained that the grants are intended to serve as catalysts for development and sustainable forest conservation, warning that TaFF will not tolerate misuse of funds or non-productive expenditures.
According to Dr. Msuya, over the past 14 years of operation, TaFF has disbursed a total of TZS 57.5 billion to support 1,245 projects across the country, of which TZS 3.1 billion has been directed to 74 projects in Tabora’s seven districts.
The funded initiatives include the construction of a lecture hall at the Beekeeping Training Institute (BTI) and the establishment of three honey processing plants located in Tabora, Sikonge, and Nzega districts. These projects are expected to enhance value addition to bee products and increase household incomes in the region.
On his part, John Malemo, a facilitator from TaFF, urged the beneficiaries to submit timely and transparent financial reports to ensure the smooth disbursement of subsequent funding phases.
“Transparency and accountability are the cornerstones for the sustainability of these grants,” he said.
Participants of the training expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism through TaFF for building their capacity, pledging to apply the knowledge gained to improve beekeeping activities and honey production, a move they believe will help make Tabora Region the country’s leading honey producer.
