On May 14, 2025, officials from the Tanzania Forest Service (TFS) visited the Fourth Division of the Mgololo Forest Reserve in the Simbi Range to inspect the ongoing road infrastructure rehabilitation project.
This inspection was a crucial step in ensuring the continued functionality of vital roads that support both forestry operations and the livelihoods of local communities.
The roads within the forest reserve are more than just pathways; they are lifelines for timber harvesters who depend on them to transport raw materials to various markets.
According to a TFS official overseeing the rehabilitation work, "Our primary goal is to maintain and improve the road network within the forest to guarantee that timber and other forest products can be transported efficiently. This rehabilitation ensures that forestry operations and timber transportation continue without delays, benefiting local stakeholders and contributing to the national economy."
The rehabilitation project is vital for the forest’s sustainable management and for the seamless functioning of its supply chain. Timber harvesting is a key industry for the local economy, and timely access to the forest is crucial for ensuring that the transportation of raw materials does not face unnecessary hindrances.
Another TFS official explained, "By improving the infrastructure, we’re not just ensuring smoother transport, but also making sure that stakeholders can harvest and transport materials without disruption. This ensures both operational efficiency and timely revenue generation."
TFS’s efforts extend beyond just roadwork. The agency is focused on addressing various challenges that arise in the forest’s management to ensure that stakeholders involved in timber harvesting can operate without delays.
"The improved infrastructure will significantly ease the logistical challenges faced by local timber harvesters," said a local timber harvester.
"This will allow us to meet our targets, avoid delays, and ensure that our businesses continue to thrive while contributing to the government’s revenue collection efforts."
In addition to road rehabilitation, TFS-Sao Hill is preparing for the upcoming planting season. The forest reserve is busy with the establishment of nursery gardens for the next planting cycle, and timber raw materials are being harvested despite the ongoing rainy season.
These activities are crucial for ensuring that the forest remains sustainable and productive for future generations.
"This ongoing work, from replanting efforts to maintaining infrastructure, underscores our commitment to sustainable forest management," said a senior TFS official. "By balancing conservation efforts with community needs, we are working toward a future where the forest continues to provide economic, environmental, and social benefits."
TFS’s comprehensive approach, which includes road rehabilitation, sustainable harvesting, and proactive replanting, demonstrates the importance of creating a harmonious balance between economic growth and environmental conservation.
As the rehabilitation project progresses, the future of Sao Hill Forest Reserve is brighter than ever, offering long-term benefits to the local communities and the country at large.