Abstract:
The United Republic of Tanzania (Tanzania) is rich in freshwater resources and biodiversity.
In this article, we highlight the importance of Tanzanian rivers and make a case for the conservation
of the freshwater and terrestrial species that rely on these rivers. We provide an overview of
current knowledge on Tanzanian rivers and discuss progress towards implementation of the National
Water Policy (2002) and Water Management Act (2009), two legislative instruments that have
motivated environmental flow assessments on at least six major rivers and o er legal backing for river
conservation. We examine major challenges that pose significant threats to water security for river
ecosystems and humans in Tanzania, among those: (1) human population growth, (2) agricultural
expansion, (3) river flow alterations, (4) industrialization, (5) introduced species, and (6) climate
change. We conclude by o ering recommendations for future river conservation e orts in Tanzania.
