Ecotourism activities at the Pugu Kazimzumbwi Forest Reserve have recorded a significant increase following infrastructure improvements under the Biodiversity Resilience of Forest Ecosystems Against Climate Change Project in Tanzania’s Natural Forest Reserves (BUREFOBI-NFR).
The project is implemented by the Tanzania Forest Services Agency (Tanzania Forest Services Agency) with support from the Global Environment Facility (Global Environment Facility) and the United Nations Development Programme (United Nations Development Programme). It aims to strengthen forest conservation while also promoting ecotourism and community benefits.
Officials say the improved infrastructure has made the forest more accessible and attractive to both local and international visitors, supporting government efforts to increase tourist arrivals to eight million by 2030.
Speaking during a visit by UNDP Regional Advisor Onesimus Muhwezi, BUREFOBI-NFR Project Coordinator and Chief Conservator of Forests under TFS, Someni Mteleka, said the investments have transformed visitor experience in the forest reserve.
He said the project, funded by GEF and UNDP, has supported key developments including a 12-kilometre access road linking Kimani and Maguruwe, two visitor resting shelters, and a modern entrance gate.
“These improvements have made it easier for visitors to move inside the forest and access different attractions safely and comfortably,” said Mteleka.
He added that improved infrastructure has also strengthened tourism services within the reserve, making Pugu Kazimzumbwi more competitive as an ecotourism destination in the coastal region.
Between 2020 and 2025, the forest reserve recorded a 69 percent increase in tourist visits. Officials attribute this growth to improved infrastructure, better management, and stronger collaboration between the government and development partners.
UNDP praised Tanzania for effectively implementing donor-funded environmental projects, saying the results show clear benefits in conservation, climate resilience, and local economic development.
Muhwezi noted that investing in natural forests not only protects biodiversity but also creates jobs and income opportunities for surrounding communities through tourism.
He said continued cooperation between government and partners will be key to ensuring long-term protection of forest ecosystems while maximizing tourism benefits.
The Pugu Kazimzumbwi Forest Reserve is among nine reserves under the BUREFOBI-NFR project, which focuses on strengthening the resilience of natural forests against climate change while promoting sustainable tourism and conservation.
Located close to Dar es Salaam, the forest is one of Tanzania’s oldest coastal forests and remains an important site for biodiversity conservation, environmental education, and nature-based tourism.
