Biodiversity and indigenous knowledge in the mountains of Tanzania

The Eastern Arc Mountains form a chain of some of Africa's oldest peaks from southeastern Kenya through Tanzania. Their proximity to the Indian Ocean and the prevailing winds results in high rainfall when compared to surrounding areas. Because of the moist conditions in comparison to the surrounding areas, the chain and its montane, submontane, and lowland forests are noted for their high levels of endemism and have been recognized as a hotspot for attention due to threats to biodiversity. Part of this chain is northeastern Tanzania's Usambara Mountains, which have been a focal point of recent efforts aimed at the sustainable development of the tropical moist forest covered slopes.

These forests are both an important component in the multiple livelihood strategies of local people and they provide an important function in the provision of a stable water resource to the densely populated downstream coastal areas including Tanzania's second largest mainland port, Tanga town. Planning is underway to identify and strengthen the benefits of the watershed's forests to local stakeholders. Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) have and continue to meet local villager's needs for energy, construction, food and health. Sustainable NTFP use is considered an incentive that directly links the conservation of the Usambara Mountain's forests to the livelihood strategies of the mountain villagers. Indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants, and their application have a unique role in this planning.