The Joint Forest Management of Ufiome Forest Reserve and Sustainable Development : A case study in Babati District, Tanzania

Abstract: The objective of this Bachelor Thesis is to study the participatory forest management of Ufiome Forest Reserve in Babati, Tanzania. Further the aim is to determine whether the Joint Forest Management of Ufiome can be considered as a part of a sustainable development. The concept of Sustainable Development is discussed in relation to the forest management of Ufiome. Through the method of semi-structured interviews during a 3 week field study in Babati District, Tanzania, came the conclusion that the Joint Forest Management of Ufiome was considered successful in conserving the forest and the ecosystem of which it holds in an effective way. Benefits such as access to water and more fodder and fruits are brought up. However in relation to the concept of the three spheres of Sustainable Development, the ecologic, social and economic, the success was not as apparent. Development of a sustainable character needs to exist in all the spheres. Economically, little to no financial gain or stimulation was evident. Although the social status has gone up in general in the District and in the villages, the process is slow. People are starting to notice a change in the villages due to the forest management. With this in mind the Joint Forest Management of Ufiome, although successful, has its flaws and needs to further develop. Informants for this thesis consist of local villagers in the area of Ufiome forest and District Officials, the majority of which share hope and a strong belief that such conservation strategies as that of the Joint Forest Management of Ufiome is a clear step in the right direction for a sustainable future.