Wildlife Corridors in Tanzania Under Threat: 41 at Risk of Closure Due to Human Activities

 

The Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute (TAWIRI) has warned that 41 wildlife corridors are at risk of closure due to increased human activities. The District Commissioner of Babati, Lazaro Twange, cautioned village leaders advocating for the invasion of these areas.

Wildlife corridors are crucial for tourism, conservation, and biological diversity as they are used by animals to move between areas in search of food, breeding grounds, and protection from diseases.

Speaking to the press, TAWIRI's Research Director, Dr. Julius Keyyu, stated that 41 corridors, including the vital Kwa Kuchinja corridor in the Babati district, are in jeopardy. Dr. Keyyu emphasized the need for swift action, pointing out that 20 corridors have already closed, and without intervention, the problem will escalate.

"We urge protection for these corridors by ensuring villages have land-use plans, allocating areas for wildlife, settlements, agriculture, and other social activities," he said.

Dr. Keyyu highlighted the endangered status of critical corridors, such as the Kwa Kuchinja corridor, situated between the Tarangire and Manyara National Parks. He credited the Burunge Wildlife Management Area for helping to prevent the complete closure of this corridor.

District Commissioner Lazaro Twange, addressing conservation efforts and wildlife corridors, called on leaders in villages forming the Burunge WMA to cease inciting conflicts immediately.

Twange, speaking to leaders of Vilimatatu village, part of Burunge WMA, mentioned that some leaders, both current and retired, are fueling conflicts in the area to oppose the corridors for their benefit. He emphasized that leaders unable to support government conservation plans should step down, with the government taking action against instigators.

In response to protests in Vilimatatu, where villagers opposed the demarcation of corridors in their areas, Twange affirmed that the government would take action against those causing unrest.

Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, Angela Kairuki, during the 14th Scientists Congress organized by TAWIRI, advocated for the protection of all 41 corridors to sustain conservation and tourism. She mentioned that 20 corridors are already closed, and the government is considering their removal from the list, leaving 41 corridors across various regions in the country.

Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, Angela Kairuki, during the 14th Scientists Congress organized by TAWIRI, advocated for the protection of all 41 corridors to sustain conservation and tourism. She mentioned that 20 corridors are already closed, and the government is considering their removal from the list, leaving 41 corridors across various regions in the country.