LOOKING AT 2023 WHILE CELEBRATING WED-2024.
In 2023, Tanzania continued to experience significant levels of deforestation, land degradation, and desertification. According to the Global Forest Watch (GFW), Tanzania lost 229,000 hectares of natural forest, resulting in 89.9 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions. Key activities that led to degradation include agricultural expansion, timber extraction, charcoal production, wildfires, and infrastructure development (these are further explored at the near end of the article). According to GFW the most affected regions include the central, western, and northern provinces such as Dodoma, Singida, Tabora, Kigoma, Arusha, Mara, Shinyanga Rukwa, and Mwanza, as well as mangrove areas in Tanga, Bagamoyo, and Mtwara.
Land degradation impacted approximately 13% of Tanzania's land mass, reports the Vice Presidents Office. Collected data, also show that desertification was particularly severe in northern Tanzania, the arid central regions, and the Lake Victoria Basin. As we commemorate the 50th WED-2024, getting to understand the levels of challenges in Tanzania is crucial. These and related data are significant as WED-2024 focuses on land restoration, desertification and drought resilience. This understanding is equally important as Tanzania lost over 150 of its citizens to seasonal rains. Get to know the regions most vulnerable to deforestation, land degradation and desertification.
LEADING REGIONS FOR DEFORESTATION IN TANZANIA 2023
In 2023, Tanzania experienced significant deforestation, with the loss of 229,000 ha of natural forest, which is equivalent to 89.9 Mt of CO₂ emissions (GFW,2024). The regions most affected by deforestation include the semi-dry and dry central, western, and northern provinces such as Dodoma, Singida, Tabora, Kigoma, Arusha, Mara, Shinyanga, and Mwanza. Additionally, mangrove areas have been cleared for salt pans and pole cutting in Tanga, Bagamoyo, and Mtwara, with the Rufiji delta being affected by rice paddy production and prawn farming. These activities have contributed to the overall deforestation rates in the country.
LEADING REGIONS LAND DEGRADATION IN TANZANIA 2023
Land degradation is a significant environmental issue in Tanzania, affecting various regions across the country. In 2023, Tanzania lost 229,000 hectares of natural forest, which is equivalent to 89.9 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions. An assessment by the Vice President's Office estimates that about 13% of Tanzania's land mass is affected by land degradation due to factors like poor farming practices, deforestation, overgrazing, and loss of biodiversity.
Areas experiencing land degradation in Tanzania include the Great Ruaha and Lake Rukwa. Moreover, Kigoma region, particularly around Lake Tanganyika are prone to land degradation following the influx of agro-pastoral migrants.
LEADING REGIONS FOR DESERTIFICATION IN TANZANIA 2023
Several regions in Tanzania are facing desertification due to extensive deforestation and land degradation. Notably, this includes the north-eastern areas along the shores of the Kigoma Region. Additionally, Northern Tanzania, particularly the Monduli District, is under severe threat of desertification exacerbated by agricultural practices and herding. This area has been hit hard by droughts, which are attributed to climate change, resulting in poor pasture growth and heightened desertification risks. Central Tanzania, including the surroundings of Dodoma, the new capital, is also grappling with desertification, primarily due to its arid climate. Furthermore, the Lake Victoria Basin and its environs are similarly affected by desertification.
ACTIVITIES LEADING FOR DEFORESTATION, DEGRADATION AND DEFORESTATION IN TANZANIA
Primary drivers for this deforestation and degradation.
Agricultural expansion: The need for more land to grow crops and rear livestock in Tanzania leads to the clearing of forests.
Timber extraction: Logging for timber and other wood products can lead to significant tree cover loss.
Charcoal production: The demand for charcoal as a source of fuel results in the cutting down of trees.
Wildfires: Fires, whether natural or man-made, can cause extensive damage to forest areas.
Infrastructure development: The construction of roads, buildings, and other infrastructure can lead to deforestation.
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