In southern Tanzania’s Tunduru District, two Wildlife Management Areas, Nalika and Chingoli, have faced serious challenges ranging from land disputes to resource management problems. Determined to find solutions, CWMAC facilitated a key Tunduru District Natural Resources Advisory Board (DNRAB) meeting focused on rescuing these WMAs. Chaired by the Tunduru District Commissioner, Hon. Simon Chacha, the meeting brought together District Council officials, conservation stakeholders, and community representatives to craft sustainable solutions for the issues undermining the WMAs’ success.
A top priority was revealing the urgent land use conflicts that have threatened both conservation and community livelihoods. “Land conflicts remain one of the biggest challenges in ensuring the long-term success of WMAs,” said Musa Mnasizu, CWMAC Legal and Policy Advisor. “By fostering dialogue and strengthening governance structures, we can create a more secure future for both wildlife and the communities that depend on these areas.” His remarks underscored the consensus that stronger conflict resolution and community governance are key to stability in Nalika and Chingoli.
Beyond land tenure issues, stakeholders discussed how to secure sustainable funding for these WMAs, strengthening law enforcement against poaching and other illegal activities, and building local capacity in natural resource management. The meeting concluded with a collective commitment to establish a joint task force that will work on practical steps to address these issues.
This collaborative effort served as a crucial step in reinforcing the role of Nalika and Chingoli WMAs in both Selous-Niassa ecosystem biodiversity protection and community development.