Namtumbo District in Tanzania is home to valuable biodiversity and natural resources that directly support local livelihoods. Effective conservation in this region is closely tied to poverty alleviation, as communities depend on ecosystem services for food, fuel, medicine and shelter. However, growing pressure from population increases and poverty can lead to unsustainable land use. Community-based conservation models like Village Land Forest Reserves (VLFRs) and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)—including regulated trophy hunting—offer a solution by aligning wildlife protection with local economic benefits. Despite their promise, these programs face challenges such as weak governance, unequal benefit-sharing and land-use conflicts. For conservation to succeed long term, local communities must be empowered through stronger participation, fair revenue distribution, diversified livelihoods and recognition of traditional knowledge. When hunting and conservation efforts are managed equitably and transparently, they can both reduce poverty and ensure the sustainable use of Tanzania’s natural resources.
