THREATS

Tanzania faces a multitude of challenges that significantly impact conservation efforts, and climate change is one of the most pressing issues that intertwine with these challenges. The effects of climate change, such as rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall patterns and increased frequency of extreme weather events, threaten both the ecosystem and the livelihoods of local communities. Widespread poverty limits communities’ ability to prioritize sustainable use of natural resources and environmental conservation, and climate change intensifies this struggle by affecting agricultural productivity and food security. Inadequate education hinders awareness of the importance of conservation, particularly in understanding how climate change impacts the environment and wildlife.

The health of both humans and wildlife becomes critical as climate change can exacerbate existing health issues, creating challenges for maintaining ecosystem balance. Rapid human population growth places immense pressure on natural resources, and as communities compete for increasingly scarce resources due to a changing climate, conflicts between human development and the conservation of wildlife habitats are likely to escalate. Development pressures from urbanization and agricultural expansion are further intensified by climate change, leading to habitat loss and fragmentation. Good governance and effective land-use planning are essential in managing these competing interests, especially in a climate-changing environment. However, many areas struggle with effective governance and lack the resources needed to implement sustainable practices. The technical and financial capacity to adapt to climate change while promoting conservation initiatives is often insufficient.

In this challenging context, the GHF is dedicated to addressing these interconnected issues through its conservation work. By engaging local communities and other stakeholders, GHF aims to promote sustainable practices that not only protect the remarkable biodiversity and the natural environment, but also build resilience against the impacts of climate change to people and the natural environment. Ensuring that both conservation and community needs are met effectively is crucial for the long-term sustainability of ecosystems in Tanzania during the face of climate change challenges.