Context:

The project on community based environmental conservation for sustainable development will focus on Uchindile ward. This is a mountainous area located in Udzungwa mountain ranges in Mlimba Division, Kilombero District. The area is characterized by land degradation and high rates of deforestation both of which have contributed to loss of wildlife habitat. The ward has a population of about 2000 people. Living conditions for people who live in this area fall below the poverty line. Lack of access to water is one of the social problems that affect livelihood.

Studies show that deforestation and forest degradation are brought about by unsustainable lifestyle of local communities. Therefore, through this project, the Lutheran Church intends to contribute to reversing the trend of degradation through community sensitization actions and wide ranging tree planting activities.

About the Proponent:

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania is a Faith Based Organization (FBO). It is divided into diocese. The proposal under reference has been received from the Ulanga-Kilombero Diocese (UKD).

In addition to spiritual objective, the UKD is also involved in economic, environmental and social community based activities. For example, UKD is on record to have supported secondary education, nursing training, HIV/AIDS counselling, screening and treatment and care for pupils from poor families. The church in collaboration with the German Government is implementing a water project worth ? 46,841.

Project?s key outcomes:

? Control (to minimum levels) deforestation and forest degradation malpractices such as (i) slash and burn agriculture (ii) hunting with fire (iii) illegal logging.
? Increased awareness and knowledge to the local communities on environment conservation and sustainable development
? Increased tree population through availability of seedlings from the project nursery
? Improved livelihoods through increased crop production due to wide adoption of agroforestry approaches.

Project Objective:

To contribute to reversing the trend of deforestation and forest degradation in Uchindile ward with the view to improving the environment and livelihoods of local communities.