Quantification of Non-Timber Forest Products utilized by local communities in Nyanjange forest reserve, Morogoro, Tanzania

Abstract

This study was conducted to assess the types and quantity of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) used by local communities around Nyanganje Forest Reserve (NFR), which is within the Eastern Arc Mountains, Kilombero District, Morogoro, Tanzania. The study involved ecological survey in the same forest whereby sytematic sampling was established along the transect across the entire study forest. The data collected was analyzed by using Microsoft Excel, a computer software tool where the average number of woody plants per hectare was computed using recommended equations. The study identified different NTFPs which are locally utilized in a study area. These include a total of 68 plant and 13 animal species. It was further revealed that, firewood was mostly extracted due to population growth, which relies on the wood-based energy from the forests. It was concluded that NTFPs are useful in day-to-day life of the local communities surrounding NFR. Furthermore, the utilization trend could lead to the reduction of NTFPs available in the forest reserve. It is however, recommended that, for sustainability of the NTFPs in Nyanganje Forest Reserve, the Government should initiate strategic plans for the production of NTFPs in Nyanganje Forest Reserve by planting the open spaces with desirable species. • Different Non-Timber-Forest Products were identified. • A total of 68 plant and 13 animal species were identified. • Firewood was mostly extracted due to population growth. • Open spaces in a study forest should be planted with desirable species.