Africa-Press – Tanzania. TANZANIA Forest Service Agency (TFS) Conservation Commissioner, Prof Dos Santos Silayo has said they have begun to strengthen the use of ICT in monitoring forest resources, including the use of satellites and drones to detect damage promptly.
He also said intelligence and surveillance systems have been improved to control forest crimes before they cause major impacts.
Explaining the basic responsibilities of TFS, during the launch of the Agency’s Advisory Board held in Dodoma, Prof Silayo said the institution is responsible for conserving and managing forest reserves under the Central Government, protecting bee resources, developing tree plantations for industrial and community use, as well as managing sustainable harvesting of forest products.
“The institution will continue to vigorously manage the conservation of forests and bee resources in accordance with the laws, regulations, and procedures of the country, while strengthening the use of modern technology to combat forest destruction
He stressed that in the implementation of these responsibilities, TFS will focus on protecting biodiversity and ecosystems, preserving forest-based water sources, reducing the impacts of climate change, and preventing illegal logging and forest invasions.
Prof Silayo added that TFS also continues to strengthen discipline and professionalism among conservation officers to increase efficiency in law enforcement. In parallel, he stressed the importance of the participation of citizens surrounding forests, explaining that sustainable conservation can not be successful without community cooperation.
He noted that in boosting the economy and reducing dependence that drives forest destruction, TFS will continue to promote beekeeping as an alternative source of income, increasing the value of forest and bee products, as well as collaborating with the private sector.
