A unique Tanzanian forest is getting a second lease on life after being declared a nature reserve.

Described by Africa Geographic as one of the continent’s most biodiverse forests, Magombera’s 2 600 ha of tropical landscapes and grasslands is also home to many animal species, ranging from elephant and hippopotamus to the endangered Udzungwa red colobus monkey and a recently discovered breed of chameleon. Yet rampant poaching and illegal logging as well as a nearby sugar plantation have posed a major threat to the area.

Collaboration between local villages, NGOs and Tanzanian authorities, however, has raised the US$1 million need to protect the land. As an official nature reserve, Magombera will receive the highest level of protection available under the Tanzania Forest Service.

‘In addition to the benefits, such as regulating climate, preventing flooding and maintaining soil fertility for crops, villagers will now benefit from entrance fees paid by tourists to visit the forest,’ according to Africa Geographic.

29 January 2019
Image: Gallo/Getty Images