Overview

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is a global organization that unites governments, NGOs, scientists, and communities to conserve nature and promote sustainable development. In Tanzania, IUCN operates under its Eastern and Southern Africa regional structure, with a country office based in Dar es Salaam.

Mandate and Key Focus Areas

IUCN’s work in Tanzania spans several interconnected themes:

1. Ecosystem Restoration and Landscape Management

IUCN supports the restoration of degraded landscapes and promotes sustainable land use practices. Projects often focus on important ecosystems such as the Great Ruaha Basin, Lake Rukwa, and the Malagarasi River catchment.

2. Nature-Based Solutions and Climate Resilience

The organization promotes nature-based solutions (NbS) to strengthen community resilience against climate change. Programs in regions like Iringa and Morogoro help integrate ecological restoration with local livelihoods.

3. Sustainable Growth Corridors

IUCN works to balance economic development with ecosystem protection, particularly in growth corridors such as Kilombero, Rukwa, and Katavi. These efforts link conservation goals with agricultural productivity and local enterprise.

4. Marine and Coastal Conservation

In coastal and island regions, IUCN supports marine biodiversity protection, community-based fisheries management, and blue economy initiatives. Projects in Zanzibar and along the mainland coast aim to strengthen coastal resilience and sustainable livelihoods.

5. Protected Areas and Conservation Governance

IUCN collaborates with Tanzanian authorities to strengthen legal and governance frameworks for conservation. This includes support for “Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures” (OECMs) that complement traditional protected areas.

6. Policy, Advocacy, and Partnerships

IUCN engages with national and local governments, research institutions, and civil society to integrate environmental priorities into policy and planning. The organization also promotes dialogue among development, private sector, and conservation actors.

Partnerships and Membership

Tanzania has been part of IUCN’s global network for decades. Members include:

Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA)

National and local NGOs such as the Climate Action Network Tanzania

Collaborations with the Vice President’s Office (Environment), local government authorities, and international donors

These partnerships enable coordinated action across sectors such as forestry, water management, marine ecosystems, and climate policy.

Achievements and Current Priorities

Over four decades of work in Tanzania supporting biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

Restoration of critical ecosystems that support both wildlife and human communities.

Expansion of marine and coastal initiatives under the blue economy framework.

Promotion of inclusive conservation approaches through OECMs and community-led management.

Mainstreaming of nature-based solutions into national climate and development strategies.