Tanzania Community Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)
Tanzania has implemented a strategic approach to conservation through the establishment of Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs). These areas are designed to balance ecological preservation with community involvement, ensuring that local populations benefit from the protection of natural habitats.
The overarching body coordinating these efforts is the Community Wildlife Management Areas Consortium (CWMAC), which serves as an umbrella organization for all related entities within the country. As of 2016, out of 38 established or gazetted WMAs, 22 have achieved "Authorized Association" (AA) status, marking a significant milestone in formalizing community-led conservation.
Key Facts
- CWMAC is the primary umbrella organization for Tanzania's WMAs.
- There are 38 established or gazetted WMAs in total.
- 22 WMAs held "Authorized Association" (AA) status as of 2016.
- WMAs often border national parks or form critical wildlife corridors between protected zones.
Detailed Overview of Selected WMAs
Enduimet Wildlife Management Area
Established in 2003, the Enduimet WMA spans 1,282 square kilometres (495 sq mi). Located in the Longido District within the Olmolog and Tinga wards, it occupies the western portion of the Kilimanjaro Basin. This area is strategically positioned, bordering the Kilimanjaro National Park to the south-east, the Tanzania-Kenya political boundary to the north, and the Ngasurai Open Area to the west. The center of the WMA is approximately 20 square kilometres (7.7 sq mi) west of Kilimanjaro.
Burunge - Juhibu Wildlife Management Area
The Burunge - Juhibu WMA was established in 2003 and covers 617 square kilometres (238 sq mi). It is situated within the Babati District.
Iluma Wildlife Management Area
Located in the Morogoro Region of Eastern Tanzania, the Iluma WMA spans the Kilombero and Ulanga districts. It is an integral part of the Selous ecosystem and the Kilombero Valley Ramsar site (a wetland of international importance). The area borders the Selous Game Reserve to the east, with much of the district following the Kilombero River valley. Its reach extends into the Rufiji Basin and the Selous Game Reserve, connecting toward the Udzungwa Mountains National Park.
Chingoli Wildlife Management Area
Gazetted in 2012, the Chingoli WMA is a vital component of the Selous-Niassa Wildlife Corridor. It comprises 47 square kilometres (18 sq mi) within the Selous Game Reserve of Tanzania—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and 42.4 square kilometres (16.4 sq mi) within Mozambique.
Other recognized Wildlife Management Areas include the Kimbanda, Kisungule, Randileni, and the Mbomip-Pawaga-Idodi WMAs.
WMA Summary Table
| WMA Name | Established/Gazetted | Size (sq km) | Location/Region |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enduimet | 2003 | 1,282 | Longido District, Kilimanjaro Basin |
| Burunge - Juhibu | 2003 | 617 | Babati District |
| Chingoli | 2012 | 89.4 (Combined) | Selous-Niassa Corridor (Tanzania/Mozambique) |
| Iluma | Not Specified | Not Specified | Morogoro Region (Kilombero/Ulanga) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CWMAC?
CWMAC stands for the Community Wildlife Management Areas Consortium, which acts as the umbrella organization for all WMA-related organizations in Tanzania.
What does "Authorized Association" status mean for a WMA?
It is a formal status granted to WMAs; as of 2016, 22 of the 38 established or gazetted WMAs had received this designation.
Which WMA is associated with a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
The Chingoli WMA is part of the Selous Game Reserve, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Where is the Enduimet WMA located?
It is located in the Longido District in the Western part of the Kilimanjaro Basin, bordering Kilimanjaro National Park and the Tanzania-Kenya boundary.
What is the significance of the Iluma WMA?
The Iluma WMA is part of the Selous ecosystem and the Kilombero Valley Ramsar site, linking the Rufiji Basin and Selous Game Reserve to the Udzungwa Mountains National Park.