**Valley Bottom Wetlands Can Serve for Both Biodiversity Conservation and Local Livelihoods Improvements**

Pantaleo K.T. Munishi1, Nice N. Wilfred1, James S. Nshare1, Stein R. Moe2, Deo D. Shirima1 and Halima H. Kilungu3 *1Department of Forest Biology, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro 2Department of Ecology and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Aas 3Open University of Tanzania (OUT), Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences Department of Tourism and Hospitality, Dar es Salaam 1,3Tanzania 2Norway* 

#### **1. Introduction**

218 Ecosystems Biodiversity

Zuidhoff, F.S. & Kolstrup, E. (2000). Changes in palsa distribution in relation to climate

*Periglacial Processes* 11:55-69.

change in Laivadalen, Northern Sweden, especially 1960-1997. *Permafrost and* 

Wetlands are among the world's most biologically productive ecosystems and rich in diversity of species and are very important storehouses of plant genetic material some of which are valuable resources for human wellbeing. The Great Ruaha River Basin covering about 6950ha forms one of the major and largest wetland systems composed of numerous ecologically and socio-economically important valley bottom wetlands in Tanzania. This study was conducted in the Ruaha River Basin to assess the contribution of the valley bottom wetlands to livelihoods and biodiversity conservation. Three sites were selected for ecological studies which include Uchindile with Mpombochi River and Isimani stream plus associated swamps, Idete with Idete River and associated swamps/streams and Mapanda with Mkungwe and Kinoga Rivers and associated swamps/streams. The five villages selected for the socio-economic study include Luganga, Matanana, Igowole, Kisada, Njiapanda and Nzivi villages within the little Ruaha sub catchment of the Great Ruaha River. The sites for ecological studies were stratified into broad vegetation types using existing topographic and land cover maps. This stratification gave several major vegetation types in which plant species were then assessed in systematically established temporary nested sample plots measuring 20 x 20 m. Each plant species encountered in each plot was identified and their percent cover estimated. For socio-economic studies the village register was used as a sampling frame, households were then randomly selected and a questionnaire administered to heads of the selected households. The questionnaire sought to get information on whether the household is involved in any kind of wetland utilization, socioeconomic activities undertaken in the wetlands, costs and revenues associated with wetlands utilization. Further to questionnaire survey PRA techniques including Focus Group Discussions (FGD) were used to supplement information from household surveys. The ecological data were summarized into tables showing a list of different vegetation types

Valley Bottom Wetlands Can Serve for Both

resource exploitation (MNRT 2003).

sustainability of these wetlands.

**2. Materials and methods** 

River basin Tanzania

**2.1 Study sites** 

Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in August 2000 (ESP, 2003).

Biodiversity Conservation and Local Livelihoods Improvements 221

The principal vision of the Government of Tanzania (GoT) is to alleviate widespread poverty by improving several socio-economic opportunities, good governance transparency and by improving public sector performance through the National Strategy for Growth and Reduction of Poverty (NSGRP) or MKUKUTA. The 2025 country's vision overall goal specifically includes references to; 'sustainable development endeavours, on intergeneration equity basis, such that the present generation derives benefits from the rational use of natural resources of the country without compromising the needs of future generations' (ESP, 2003). Further more the National Strategy for Growth and Reduction of Poverty (NSGRP) or MKUKUTA recognize poverty as largely a rural phenomenon and that the rural poor depend solely or to a greater extent on natural resources (Bagachwa, 1994; DPG, 2005; PRSP 2000). Consequently the national environmental policy of 1997 and all the natural resource policies emphasize the clear cause-and-effect relationship between poverty and environmental degradation, and because of this they stress on the need for sectoral policies to address poverty issues by taking into account the need for wise use and sustainable

Wetlands are amongst the most productive ecosystem in Tanzania and have significant economic, social, cultural and biological values (HOORC, 2002). Apart from agricultural use wetlands are considered useful as sources of a variety of natural resources of significance to human welfare. The Government of Tanzania has shown its commitment towards wise use of wetlands as stipulated in the Ramsar Convention and recognizes wetlands as significant natural resources with important ecosystem services and biological values by ratifying the

Tanzania is endowed with exceptional wetland resources in which 10% of the country is covered by wetland ecosystems. These ecosystems in Tanzania range from large lake systems to river floodplains, deltaic mangrove formations and associated catchments (Maltby, 1986; Kamukara and Crafter 1993). Of the area covered by wetlands, 5.5% is occupied by four Ramsar sites namely Malagarasi/Moyovosi (32,500 Km²), Lake Natron Basin (2250 Km²), Kilombero valley floodplains (7,950 Km²) and Rufiji-Mafia-Kilwa (5,969.7 Km²) (MNRT 2003). Broadly the country is divided into nine drainage (river) basins which include Lake Rukwa, Lake Victoria, Lake Tanganyika, Lake Nyasa, Rufiji River, Pangani River, Ruvuma River and Southern Coast, Wami-Ruvu River and Internal Drainage basin. Each of these basins includes a network of rivers and inland valley bottom wetlands scattered throughout the country. These vast biologically rich resources in Tanzania are unique in their biodiversity values as well as support to local livelihoods (MNRT 2003, 2008, Munishi and Kilungu, 2004). The protection of these wetlands against biodiversity loss while maintaining their socio-economic value requires an integrated approach to management though currently protection for biodiversity conservation does not appear to be a serious alternative among majority of the society in Tanzania which jeopardizes future

This papers presents results of a study to assess the role of wetland ecosystems in conserving plant diversity and contribution to livelihood enhancement in the Great Ruaha

The study site was the Great Ruaha River Basin in Mufindi district, Iringa region (Figure 1). Mufindi District is one of the seven Districts in Iringa Region located in Southern Highland of Tanzania. Mufindi District lies between latitude 80.00' 90 15' South and longitude 340 35'–

and their species composition, abundance and dominance. The abundance and dominance of each species was determined from their percent cover estimates. Socio-economic data were analyzed and summarized into social economic activities undertaken by a household, agricultural utilization of wetlands and crops grown in dry/wet seasons and the proportional contribution of each wetland related socio-economic activities to household food security (food available for household consumption) and income. The economic benefits were assessed by using gross margin analysis, food available for consumption as indicator of food security was used to assess food security at household level; and the contingent valuation technique was applied to assess the value of wetlands services.

Compared to other habitat types the valley bottom wetlands are the major repository of biodiversity of both flora and fauna, yet they are the most intensively utilized habitats for livelihood enhancement and buffer against drought in the Ruaha River Basin' instead. It was observed that the biodiversity of the valley bottom wetlands is higher than that in any other ecosystem types within the basin in the same locality'. The valley bottom wetlands in these areas are also repositories of some threatened/endangered plant species such as *Prunus africana, Protea sp.* making them important habitats for biodiversity conservation. It was further observed that overall, the total use value of productive activities carried out in upland and valley bottom wetlands was Tanzanian Shillings (Tshs) 3,415,458 (US\$ 2,732) per household per year of which 31% of the total economic benefits accrued from utilization of the valleybottom wetlands. Wetland based socio-economic activities included agricultural production (farming) practiced by over 98% of the population followed by livestock grazing and fishing. Wetland based socio-economic activities carried out in valley bottoms commonly known by local people as *vinyungu* contribute about 15% of household food and 55 - 95% of household income annually, equivalent to Tshs 3,234,721 (US\$ 2,588). In this respect valleybottom wetlands contribute significantly to household economy and food security. Furthermore over 90% of the dry season agricultural production is associated with valley bottom wetlands. Given the direct benefits of valleybottom wetlands and potential contribution to livelihoods the livelihood potential may override the biodiversity values of these Valleybottom wetlands. If left unattended it is likely that the wetlands will be degraded thus loosing their biodiversity values. The dual value of valley bottom wetlands (biodiversity and household economy) makes them unique habitats requiring an integrated approach to ensure achievement of both without impairing the ecological integrity of these wetlands.

Wetlands are among the world's most biologically rich ecosystems with high species diversity (Mvena et al 1999; Yanda et al., 2005; Munishi and Kilungu, 2004; Munishi et al. 2005). Wetland ecosystems are second only to the rain forests in the number of wildlife and plant species that depend on them for feeding and habitat. Historically, wetlands have been regarded as wastelands but they can also be viewed as being among the last truly wild and untouched places in the world (Maltby, 1986) making them of high repository of biological diversity with most wetlands offering important habitats to a variety of fauna and flora.

It is well documented that In Sub Saharan African countries, wetlands have a considerable importance in provision of innumerable benefits like drinking water, routes for transport, harvestable plants and animals (Ramsar, 1997). Though not well quantified, Tanzania's wetlands contribute in diverse ways to livelihoods of many millions and are chiefly utilized for crop and livestock production (Kashaigili, 2006). Furthermore, wetlands provide income in both dry and wet years for fairly large number of people engaged in agriculture because of their available water and high soil fertility (Munishi, *et al*., 2003; Mkavidanda and Kaswamila, 2001; Masiyandima *et al.,* 2004; Kashaigili and Mahoo, 2005).

and their species composition, abundance and dominance. The abundance and dominance of each species was determined from their percent cover estimates. Socio-economic data were analyzed and summarized into social economic activities undertaken by a household, agricultural utilization of wetlands and crops grown in dry/wet seasons and the proportional contribution of each wetland related socio-economic activities to household food security (food available for household consumption) and income. The economic benefits were assessed by using gross margin analysis, food available for consumption as indicator of food security was used to assess food security at household level; and the

contingent valuation technique was applied to assess the value of wetlands services.

both without impairing the ecological integrity of these wetlands.

Kaswamila, 2001; Masiyandima *et al.,* 2004; Kashaigili and Mahoo, 2005).

Wetlands are among the world's most biologically rich ecosystems with high species diversity (Mvena et al 1999; Yanda et al., 2005; Munishi and Kilungu, 2004; Munishi et al. 2005). Wetland ecosystems are second only to the rain forests in the number of wildlife and plant species that depend on them for feeding and habitat. Historically, wetlands have been regarded as wastelands but they can also be viewed as being among the last truly wild and untouched places in the world (Maltby, 1986) making them of high repository of biological diversity with most wetlands offering important habitats to a variety of fauna and flora. It is well documented that In Sub Saharan African countries, wetlands have a considerable importance in provision of innumerable benefits like drinking water, routes for transport, harvestable plants and animals (Ramsar, 1997). Though not well quantified, Tanzania's wetlands contribute in diverse ways to livelihoods of many millions and are chiefly utilized for crop and livestock production (Kashaigili, 2006). Furthermore, wetlands provide income in both dry and wet years for fairly large number of people engaged in agriculture because of their available water and high soil fertility (Munishi, *et al*., 2003; Mkavidanda and

Compared to other habitat types the valley bottom wetlands are the major repository of biodiversity of both flora and fauna, yet they are the most intensively utilized habitats for livelihood enhancement and buffer against drought in the Ruaha River Basin' instead. It was observed that the biodiversity of the valley bottom wetlands is higher than that in any other ecosystem types within the basin in the same locality'. The valley bottom wetlands in these areas are also repositories of some threatened/endangered plant species such as *Prunus africana, Protea sp.* making them important habitats for biodiversity conservation. It was further observed that overall, the total use value of productive activities carried out in upland and valley bottom wetlands was Tanzanian Shillings (Tshs) 3,415,458 (US\$ 2,732) per household per year of which 31% of the total economic benefits accrued from utilization of the valleybottom wetlands. Wetland based socio-economic activities included agricultural production (farming) practiced by over 98% of the population followed by livestock grazing and fishing. Wetland based socio-economic activities carried out in valley bottoms commonly known by local people as *vinyungu* contribute about 15% of household food and 55 - 95% of household income annually, equivalent to Tshs 3,234,721 (US\$ 2,588). In this respect valleybottom wetlands contribute significantly to household economy and food security. Furthermore over 90% of the dry season agricultural production is associated with valley bottom wetlands. Given the direct benefits of valleybottom wetlands and potential contribution to livelihoods the livelihood potential may override the biodiversity values of these Valleybottom wetlands. If left unattended it is likely that the wetlands will be degraded thus loosing their biodiversity values. The dual value of valley bottom wetlands (biodiversity and household economy) makes them unique habitats requiring an integrated approach to ensure achievement of The principal vision of the Government of Tanzania (GoT) is to alleviate widespread poverty by improving several socio-economic opportunities, good governance transparency and by improving public sector performance through the National Strategy for Growth and Reduction of Poverty (NSGRP) or MKUKUTA. The 2025 country's vision overall goal specifically includes references to; 'sustainable development endeavours, on intergeneration equity basis, such that the present generation derives benefits from the rational use of natural resources of the country without compromising the needs of future generations' (ESP, 2003). Further more the National Strategy for Growth and Reduction of Poverty (NSGRP) or MKUKUTA recognize poverty as largely a rural phenomenon and that the rural poor depend solely or to a greater extent on natural resources (Bagachwa, 1994; DPG, 2005; PRSP 2000). Consequently the national environmental policy of 1997 and all the natural resource policies emphasize the clear cause-and-effect relationship between poverty and environmental degradation, and because of this they stress on the need for sectoral policies to address poverty issues by taking into account the need for wise use and sustainable resource exploitation (MNRT 2003).

Wetlands are amongst the most productive ecosystem in Tanzania and have significant economic, social, cultural and biological values (HOORC, 2002). Apart from agricultural use wetlands are considered useful as sources of a variety of natural resources of significance to human welfare. The Government of Tanzania has shown its commitment towards wise use of wetlands as stipulated in the Ramsar Convention and recognizes wetlands as significant natural resources with important ecosystem services and biological values by ratifying the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in August 2000 (ESP, 2003).

Tanzania is endowed with exceptional wetland resources in which 10% of the country is covered by wetland ecosystems. These ecosystems in Tanzania range from large lake systems to river floodplains, deltaic mangrove formations and associated catchments (Maltby, 1986; Kamukara and Crafter 1993). Of the area covered by wetlands, 5.5% is occupied by four Ramsar sites namely Malagarasi/Moyovosi (32,500 Km²), Lake Natron Basin (2250 Km²), Kilombero valley floodplains (7,950 Km²) and Rufiji-Mafia-Kilwa (5,969.7 Km²) (MNRT 2003). Broadly the country is divided into nine drainage (river) basins which include Lake Rukwa, Lake Victoria, Lake Tanganyika, Lake Nyasa, Rufiji River, Pangani River, Ruvuma River and Southern Coast, Wami-Ruvu River and Internal Drainage basin. Each of these basins includes a network of rivers and inland valley bottom wetlands scattered throughout the country. These vast biologically rich resources in Tanzania are unique in their biodiversity values as well as support to local livelihoods (MNRT 2003, 2008, Munishi and Kilungu, 2004). The protection of these wetlands against biodiversity loss while maintaining their socio-economic value requires an integrated approach to management though currently protection for biodiversity conservation does not appear to be a serious alternative among majority of the society in Tanzania which jeopardizes future sustainability of these wetlands.

This papers presents results of a study to assess the role of wetland ecosystems in conserving plant diversity and contribution to livelihood enhancement in the Great Ruaha River basin Tanzania
