Prof. Dos Santos Silayo, the Commissioner for Conservation at the Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS), has called on conservation officers and rangers across the country to apply the leadership skills gained during their training, while also embracing innovation and adopting modern technologies in their daily operations.
Prof. Silayo made these remarks on April 12, 2025, during the official closing ceremony of leadership training for 481 conservation officers at the Forest Training College (Olmotonyi), located in Arusha City.
He emphasized that the knowledge and skills acquired during the training should serve as a driving force for positive change, enabling officers to enhance their performance and achieve institutional goals more efficiently and on time.
"It is crucial that every officer takes full responsibility for managing their assigned areas. Effective management will lead to better results and help the institution achieve its goals within the set timelines," said Prof. Silayo.
In addition, the Commissioner encouraged the use of modern technologies, such as drones, in managing conservation areas, explaining that such tools would improve the speed and accuracy of detecting criminal activities, thus boosting the effectiveness of conservation efforts.
"Our institution is engaged in a variety of important tasks, such as tree planting, raw material harvesting, beekeeping, and eco-tourism. It is essential that we ensure the community is well-informed about these activities, as increased awareness will promote a deeper understanding of conservation issues," he added.
Prof. Silayo further urged the conservation officers to break away from traditional, routine methods of working and instead focus on fostering creativity that drives tangible results in the protection and management of forest and beekeeping resources.
"We must embrace new approaches to our work, showing innovation that results in positive outcomes for both conservation and the communities we serve," he said.
In his closing remarks, Prof. Silayo reminded the graduates of the importance of upholding the rule of law, discipline, and collaboration, stating that these principles are the foundation of good performance and the long-term success of the Conservation Corps.
"The foundation of good performance and success in our work lies in following the rule of law, maintaining discipline, and working together as a team," he emphasized.
Earlier, Dr. Joseph Makero, Head of the Olmotonyi Forest College, congratulated the graduates for their discipline, determination, and professionalism throughout the training.
"The qualities you have displayed during this training are essential for executing national conservation responsibilities effectively," he said.
Meanwhile, Erasto Luoga, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Conservation and TFS Administration Manager, presented a report on the training and highlighted that 481 conservation officers successfully graduated, achieving remarkable results.
"This achievement marks the beginning of a new chapter in conservation leadership, one where innovation and collaboration will lead the way," he concluded.