Environment

It is well known that the natural biodiversity of life on earth has decreased significantly due to human activity since the dawn of civilization. Despite the fact that human life is dependent upon nature, this trend of destruction continues to this day. Great strides have been made to preserve wilderness areas in many countries, but Tanzania is among the best in the world. With 28% of its landmass protected, it is no surprise that Tanzania is famous for its vast variety of plant and animal life. 

The Mount Hanang Nature Forest Reserve (MHNFR) is a tremendously beautiful and interesting area that is surprisingly less visited than most parks. The local office of the Tanzania Forestry Service (TFS) does the important work of protecting the park and managing its plentiful resources to ensure that all it has to offer is available for future generations. 

Preventing deforestation and supporting reforestation have been major essential functions of TFS in Hanang since its inception. In the past, local logging activity threatened the forest but has recently been kept under control by an increase in the severity of enforcement. Recently, with support from the district commissioner, major tree-planting efforts have also begun on the shores of lake Basutu and around the villages of Dirma and Mereru. 

The future of conservation in the region is looking positive, but work must continue to be done in order to continue building momentum on the valuable progress that has been made. Living in harmony with the natural world has been integral to human life since the very beginning, and it is our responsibility to ensure that this balance remains intact. All stakeholders must continue to work together to promote the health of all life that calls the beautiful Mount Hanang home.