TANZANIA Forest Service Agency (TFS) Northern Zone has begun deploying drones to detect and monitor forest destruction caused by human activities in a strategic initiative aimed at preventing further degradation of the country’s vital forest resources.

Speaking at a forestry stakeholders’ meeting here at the weekend, Korogwe District Commissioner William Mwakilema underscored the government’s commitment to protecting forests. 

He emphasised that regional authorities were commuted to eliminating all encroachers from forest reserves and ensuring strict compliance with environmental protection laws.

He said human activities such as shifting agriculture, charcoal production, and illegal mining are identified as the primary drivers of deforestation and forest degradation across various regions in Tanzania. 

The activities threaten biodiversity, disrupt ecosystems, and contribute to soil erosion and climate change. To combat the issues, TFS leverages cutting-edge drone technology to enhance monitoring capabilities, enabling more accurate identification of forest areas affected by encroachment. 

“Drones will provide real-time aerial imagery, allowing for rapid response and more effective enforcement of conservation measures,” he said.

TFS hopes that the use of drones will improve forest resource management by enabling more efficient surveillance over large and remote areas that are difficult to monitor through traditional methods. 

Drones can cover vast tracts of land quickly and identify problematic areas with greater precision. This technological approach not only allows for faster detection of illegal activities but also supports evidence collection for legal action against violators.

The TFS initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen environmental protection and sustainable resource management in Tanzania. 

Through the modern approach, TFS aims to enhance the enforcement of conservation laws and prevent further destruction of Tanzania’s critical forest ecosystems which play an essential role in maintaining the country’s ecological balance and combating climate change impacts.

In addition to monitoring, TFS plans to use drone data for restoration projects, mapping degraded areas, and identifying regions where reforestation efforts can be most effective. 

The technological shift also aligns with the country’s long-term conservation goals, supporting sustainable development while safeguarding the natural heritage for future generations.