Mtarara Conservancy

Mtarara Conservancy: A Detailed Overview

Location and Geography:

The Mtarara Conservancy is a vast and ecologically significant area located on the northern banks of the Zambezi River. This area forms a natural boundary with the Zambezi Tambara Conservancy (ZTC) and is situated between Mtarara District and Moatize District. The conservancy covers an expansive 300,000 hectares, providing a diverse range of ecosystems from riverine wetlands to savannah woodlands, which support a rich biodiversity of wildlife and plant species.

The conservancy benefits from 50 kilometers of prime Zambezi River frontage, a key geographical feature that enhances its ecological value, as the river serves as an important water source for the local wildlife and communities. The strategic location of the conservancy along the river also offers potential for ecotourism and wildlife conservation initiatives, while fostering sustainable development in the region.

Wildlife and Conservation Efforts:

The Mtarara Conservancy is home to a variety of iconic wildlife species, including buffaloes and a herd of nearly 100 elephants, among other large herbivores. These species are vital to the ecosystem, contributing to the balance of plant and animal life. The presence of such wildlife highlights the conservancy’s importance as a conservation area. The conservancy's primary goal is to protect and manage these species through sustainable conservation practices, with an emphasis on minimizing human-wildlife conflict and fostering cohabitation between wildlife and local communities.

Efforts are focused on creating a sanctuary for wildlife while promoting biodiversity. Long-term plans include creating designated wildlife zones and implementing conservation programs to protect endangered species and promote responsible eco-tourism. Furthermore, the conservancy aims to work closely with the surrounding communities to ensure that conservation activities benefit both the environment and local livelihoods.

Community Development and Stakeholder Engagement:

A key aspect of the Mtarara Conservancy is its commitment to fostering sustainable community development. The project is still in its stakeholder engagement phase, with the goal of building strong partnerships with local communities. The development of the conservancy is designed to be a collaborative effort, ensuring that the benefits of conservation are shared with the surrounding communities.

The community development area will focus on improving livelihoods through various initiatives such as education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and sustainable agriculture. A significant part of the community’s involvement will be through the creation of an Agro-Industrial Park, which will provide opportunities for local farmers, entrepreneurs, and businesses to engage in value-added agricultural activities. This park will serve as a hub for innovation and sustainable farming practices, creating employment and improving local food security.

Agro-Industrial Park:

The Agro-Industrial Park will be a key component of the Mtarara Conservancy’s economic development strategy. This facility will provide local communities with the tools, resources, and knowledge to engage in sustainable agriculture, processing, and value addition. The park will feature a variety of agricultural enterprises, including crop production, livestock farming, and agro-processing industries. The establishment of this park will help diversify the local economy, reduce dependence on traditional farming methods, and create employment opportunities in the region.

One of the key features of the park will be its focus on environmental sustainability, incorporating technologies and practices that minimize resource consumption and waste. The park will also prioritize the development of sustainable supply chains, linking farmers and producers to regional and international markets.

Partnership Structure and Governance:

The Mtarara Conservancy will be managed in partnership between Savannah Conservation Africa (SCA) and the local community. Savannah Conservation Africa, a leading conservation and wildlife management organization, will hold a 60% stake in the conservancy, while the community will retain a 40% share. This partnership structure ensures that the conservancy's management and development activities are aligned with both conservation goals and community welfare.

SCA will bring its expertise in wildlife conservation, tourism, and environmental management to the project, while the local community will actively participate in decision-making processes, ensuring that their needs and aspirations are central to the project’s development. This governance model will facilitate a balanced approach to conservation and community development, allowing both parties to share the benefits derived from the conservancy’s success.

Sustainable Development and Long-term Goals:

The overarching vision for the Mtarara Conservancy is to establish a model for sustainable development that integrates conservation, agriculture, and community empowerment. The conservancy will operate as a self-sustaining entity, generating revenue through eco-tourism, sustainable farming, and the sale of agricultural products, while reinvesting in conservation and community initiatives.

The long-term goals of the Mtarara Conservancy include:

Wildlife Preservation: Strengthening the management of wildlife populations, particularly the buffalo and elephant herds, ensuring their protection and facilitating safe migration corridors across the conservancy.
Sustainable Agriculture: Developing a thriving Agro-Industrial Park that supports local farmers, enhances food production, and promotes sustainable farming practices.
Economic Growth: Creating employment opportunities for the local population through eco-tourism, agriculture, and conservation activities. The conservancy will also aim to stimulate local markets by connecting agricultural producers to regional and global markets.
Community Development: Improving the living standards of the surrounding communities by investing in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. The conservancy will also ensure that the community shares in the economic benefits generated by the project.
Ecotourism and Education: Developing eco-tourism initiatives that highlight the region’s natural beauty and wildlife, offering tourists a chance to experience sustainable tourism while educating them about conservation efforts.

Conclusion:

The Mtarara Conservancy is poised to become a significant conservation and development project that balances the needs of wildlife and local communities. Through strategic partnerships, sustainable development practices, and a focus on community engagement, the conservancy will serve as a model for integrating conservation with economic development. By leveraging its natural resources and biodiversity, the Mtarara Conservancy has the potential to contribute to regional economic growth, environmental sustainability, and improved quality of life for the local population. The ongoing stakeholder engagements and collaboration between Savannah Conservation Africa and the community will be pivotal in ensuring the long-term success and sustainability of the conservancy.

Project Developmental Phase:

Stakeholder Engagement level