The memorandum of understanding between the National Directorate of Land and Forests of Mozambique (DNTF) and the Forestry and Beekeeping Division (FBD) of Tanzania outlines cooperative measures to help improve the management of critical natural resources such as forests and wildlife in the two countries, and to increase the economic and livelihood benefits that such resources bring to the communities
The MOU is the result of a years’ work by the signatories and the WWF, which facilitated exchange visits and organized several meetings. It is also expected to open the doors for greater cooperation and exchange of experience in issues such as community forest management and REDD.
“The signing of this MOU will benefit the people of Tanzania and Mozambique who will have increased access to benefits from forest and wildlife resources which are currently absorbed by illegal activities run by a very small group of people,” said Rito Mabunda, WWF Mozambique’s Forest Programme Coordinator.
“With the reduction of illegal activities and improved collection of fees and taxes from timber going to government instead of unscrupulous illegal timber dealers, more resources will become available to Government to improve local education and health infrastructure.
“Also, the development of income generating activities will mean that more income will flow to local communities.”