By Beatus Maganja
Residents of Ngarambe Village in the
Ngarambe Ward of Rufiji District, Pwani Region, have expressed their heartfelt
gratitude to the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA) for their swift
intervention in preventing severe flooding in the area. The situation arose
after the river, swollen by heavy rains and Hurricane Hidaya, began to change
course, posing a significant threat to the community.
On July 26, 2024, villagers thanked
TAWA through the Selous Game Reserve management at the Kingupira station for
providing a machine to divert the river, which played a crucial role in
mitigating the flood risk. This timely action saved lives and protected
property from extensive damage.
Salum Kassim, a Ngarambe Village
resident, described the devastating impact of the heavy rainfall and hurricane
HIDAYA, which led to the river's overflow into residential areas and farmland.
"The rains were so heavy, and with the hurricane, it became even worse.
The river changed its course, damaging homes, and infrastructure, including
school buildings and latrines," Kassim explained.
Kassim emphasized that the strong
relationship between the Selous Game Reserve and the local community
facilitated TAWA's rapid response. "The active response and cooperation
from the Reserve, especially from the Kingupira station, was vital. They provided
the machinery needed to divert the river and prevent further damage," he
added.
Jimmy Mshana, the Acting Commander of
the Selous Game Reserve and head of the neighborly relations unit, acknowledged
the long-standing partnership between Ngarambe Village and the Reserve.
"Seeing the village in distress, we felt compelled to act swiftly. Our
team, along with local leaders and residents, worked tirelessly to divert the
river and prevent a catastrophe," Mshana said.
TAWA's involvement in the community
extends beyond emergency response. The authority has been instrumental in
supporting residents living near wildlife reserves through various programs.
Earlier this year, TAWA provided essential supplies, including food and
mattresses, to flood-affected residents and offered education on avoiding
dangers posed by natural disasters and wildlife, such as crocodiles and hippos.
The actions taken by TAWA highlight the importance of effective collaboration between conservation authorities and local communities in addressing environmental and social challenges. The residents of Ngarambe Village are grateful for the support they received, which underscores TAWA's commitment to the well-being of people living in and around Tanzania's wildlife reserves.