Poland in Tanzania

For several years, the Polish Embassy in Dar es Salaam has been actively engaged in promoting peaceful coexistence between wildlife and local communities, addressing challenges such as the expansion of settlements and agriculture near protected areas. This year’s support from Polish Aid has facilitated STEP’s multi-faceted initiatives, which include educating children and adults, protecting agricultural crops from elephant incursions, and establishing additional Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs).

As part of its educational efforts, STEP continues its programs in 28 schools and has expanded its outreach to 10 more educational institutions, raising awareness about elephants. This year, the program has reached over 6,500 students, half of whom were girls. The activities included lectures, artistic events and sports tournaments aimed at promoting the conservation of elephant population. Additionally, 140 students and 35 teachers participated in two educational trips to Udzungwa Mountains National Park, gaining hands-on knowledge about the local ecosystem.

The project also provides training for adults. STEP has conducted individual sessions for 387 farmers, focusing on crop protection and safe practices when encountering wild animals, particularly elephants. Community film nights held in over a dozen villages attracted more than 1,000 participants, boosting ecological awareness and fostering positive attitudes toward these majestic creatures.

A key component of the project is the renovation of protective fencing around agricultural fields to mitigate elephant-related crop damage. This year, STEP assisted local farmers in Kanyenja village with the renovation of a 2.6-kilometer fence. Additionally, a 2.1-kilometer metal strip fence was refurbished in Magombera village. In Kanyenja, a fence incorporating hanging beehives was further enhanced with solar lights and metal strips, which has improved its effectiveness.

To support sustainable development, six new Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) were established. These groups provide farmers with access to secure, low-interest loans, enabling them to invest in their farms, avoid premature crop sales, and diversify their income sources. Women, who make up more than 50% of the beneficiaries of the project, are a particular focus of the program. Continued support was also provided to 15 existing VSLA groups, enhancing their operational capacity. Together, these VSLAs now comprise 546 farmers.

Thanks to the support of Polish Aid, local communities are becoming more ecologically aware, while their quality of life improves. The Kilombero Valley is gradually emerging as a model for the harmonious coexistence of people and nature.