Babati villagers reap big from carbon trading
Babati's District Executive Director Anna Mbogo speaks to journalists during a field visit that is part of the Tuhifadhi Maliasili Initiative (Preserve Natural Resources), a project supported by USAID and implemented by the Journalists' Environmental Association of Tanzania (JET). PHOTO | HELLEN NACHILONGO
What you need to know:
- By embracing sustainable practices, Babati villagers are not only protecting their environment but also securing their financial future
Babati. Villagers in Babati District are reaping significant financial rewards from their commitment to environmental protection and sustainable practices.
Carbon trading has emerged as a major source of income, with the Makame Wildlife Management Area (MWMA) generating Sh2.5 billion in 2022/23 and the Endanyawish community earning Sh2.1 billion.
This success story extends beyond carbon credits. Villages under the Burunge Wildlife Management Authority (BMWA) saw over Sh2 billion in revenue during the same period, thanks to investments in lodges and photographic tourism.
“Villagers recognised the potential of carbon trading and partnered with investors,” explained Mr. Michael Gwandu, an environmental management expert in Manyara Region.
This collaboration resulted in significant earnings for the MWMA and Endanyawish communities.”
Endanyawish’s experience exemplifies the growing trend. Their initial pilot program in 2017 yielded Sh200 million, and earnings have steadily climbed ever since.
Experts predict a potential doubling of income in 2024. Some villages are even reported to earn close to Sh3 billion through carbon trading.
The benefits extend beyond financial gain. Ms Anna Mbogo, Babati District Executive Director, highlighted the positive impact on tourism.
“Ten villages within the BMWA have earned over Sh2 billion from tourism activities like photography and wildlife viewing,” she told journalists who were on a tour as part of the Tuhifadhi Maliasili Initiative (Preserve Natural Resources Initiative) that is funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
The tour was organised by the Journalists’ Environmental Association of Tanzania (JET).
“Conservation efforts translate to financial benefits for the villages.”
This newfound wealth is being used for community development. Ms Mbogo noted that villages have used these funds to build secondary schools.
According to Mr Benson Mwaise, BMWA Secretary, investments from six local and foreign companies focusing on tented lodges and photographic tourism have significantly contributed to the revenue stream.
“These funds are used to create designated grazing areas for livestock, minimizing human-wildlife conflict,” explained Mr Mwaise.
Babati’s story serves as a powerful example of how environmental responsibility can lead to economic prosperity and a brighter future for communities.
