Drivers, trends and management of forest plantation fires in Tanzania

Abstract

During the last two decades there has been an increase in investments in exotic woodlots and commercial forest plantations in Tanzania. However, fire has repeatedly been singled out as number one risk to forestry plantations investments and improved management is urgently needed to reverse the trend and ensure sustainable supply of forest products. Unfortunately, little has been documented on major drivers, trends and management of exotic woodlots and forest plantation fires in Tanzania. Lack of such information has slowed down and diminished efforts to reduce the negative impacts of these fires and upscaling of commercial forestry. This paper analyses few available published information and gray literature as well as satellite imagery for 2016–2020 to put together drivers, trends and management of forest plantation fires. To effectively control fires, it is important that forest policy is enforced, education and awareness on fires is enhanced, local communities support is promoted and fire prevention and suppression is strengthened in Tanzania.