By The Respondents reporter
Tanzania has called for stronger public cooperation in forest conservation, warning that the country’s food security depends directly on the protection of its forests.
Deputy Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Hamad Hassan Chande, said sustainable development and agricultural productivity cannot be achieved without preserving forest ecosystems.
Speaking at a public rally in Katavi Region ahead of International Day of Forests, Chande urged citizens to work closely with conservation institutions to protect forest resources.
“Continue cooperating with our conservation institutions to ensure sustainable development, especially in agriculture. Without forests there is no food, and without rainfall there is no food,” he said.
The remarks were made during an ongoing nationwide tour by Tanzania’s Prime Minister, Mwigulu Lameck Nchemba, who is inspecting development projects and engaging with communities.
Chande also highlighted the importance of community forest conservation, saying the government would continue working with local leaders and residents to clearly demarcate forest reserve boundaries and community forest areas to reduce conflicts and promote shared responsibility.
Officials say strengthening community participation in forest management is key to ensuring long-term environmental sustainability while supporting rural livelihoods and agricultural production.
