Wildfire dynamics, local people’s fire use and underlying factors for wildfires at Liwale District in Southern Tanzania

Abstract: Fire causes positive effects on the ecosystem if appropriately managed. Unmanaged fire may, however, rather be detrimental. Despite the substantial role the forests play in economics and other ecosystem services in Tanzania, the forest landscape is threatened by wildfires. There is little information regarding wildfires, and available data is too general. Empirical data on wildfires at a local scale is essential for underpinning fire management strategies and policies. This study determined the spatial and temporal dynamics of wildfires in Liwale district, south-east Tanzania. It also examined the interaction between local people and fires regarding fire use, fire occurrences, and the influence of incentives in forest fire suppression. The study used focus group discussion, key informants, archival data, and remote sensing to achieve the objectives. The results show that local people in Liwale district predominantly use fire in farm preparation. The extent of burning was relatively greater in reserve areas compared to community forest. The study has shown that tangible forest benefits may influence the community's willingness to suppress forest fire. The study recommends the government of Tanzania to ensure that the local community realizes the forests' economic values to encourage them to conserve the forests, including undertaking fire suppression.