Abstract:
Deforestation and forest degradation in Tanzania are the challenges noting deforestation rate of about
500,000 ha per year. Tanzania Forestry Research Institute (TAFORI) has gained vast experiences in solving
deforestation and forest degradation. Experiences gained are from enhancing natural regeneration of
degraded forests and woodlands, introduction and screening and multiplication of Eucalyptus hybrid clones,
artificial propagation of indigenous trees (medicinal, timber and fruit trees), including application of tissue
culture technology, enhancing availability of planting materials through the establishment of seed orchards
and gene conservation stands. In meeting charcoal demands and sustainable utilization of available trees
resources, efficient charcoal-making kiln (Casamance) has been introduced and disseminated through
outreach programme. Regeneration techniques for 10 dominant tree species in Miombo woodlands of
Tabora and three tree species within the Eastern Arc Mountains have been developed. Over 500,000
ha of Ngitilis and 20 tree species have been restored in Mwanza and Shinyanga regions. Through Tree
Biotechnology Programme, improved Eucalyptus hybrid clones have been introduced and adopted by
stakeholders. Morever, the new focus towards application of tissue culture technology will widen the
range of benefits including mass seedlings production. Several publications on research findings and
dissemination materials in user-friendly languages have been made and distributed to stakeholders. More
studies, identification of new technologies and innovations are required to meet the growing demands of
wood.
