Unganisha – Master plan and model for a large-scale landscape program for sustainable development and nature conservation

The transboundary landscape spanning southern Kenya and northern Tanzania hosts some of the world’s most iconic wildlife and ecosystems. However, this critical corridor faces increasing threats from rapid land use changes, climate change, and fragmented conservation efforts. Human–wildlife conflict, water scarcity, and limited livelihood opportunities further challenge the coexistence of people and wildlife in this region.

The Unganisha Project (“connected” in Kiswahili) addresses these challenges by strengthening coordinated transboundary conservation efforts across the Kilimanjaro–Tsavo ecosystem. The project promotes integrated land use planning, supports community-based human–wildlife conflict mitigation, improves water security, and enhances sustainable livelihoods. It also introduces innovative approaches such as awareness campaigns, community theatre, and digital communication tools to foster behavioural change.

By aligning conservation actions among multiple stakeholders and empowering local communities, the project ensures the protection of vital wildlife corridors while improving resilience and wellbeing for communities dependent on natural resources.

The Unganisha Project is implemented in the West Kilimanjaro and Mkomazi–Tsavo corridor in northern Tanzania, forming part of a larger transboundary initiative between Tanzania and Kenya. The project aims to strengthen ecosystem connectivity and improve coexistence between people and wildlife through coordinated conservation efforts. By integrating land use planning, conflict mitigation, water management, and livelihood support, the project enhances both biodiversity conservation and community resilience in this globally significant landscape.

1. Land Use Planning and Governance Strengthening

The project supports 11 villages to review and update Village Land Use Plans (VLUPs) to improve sustainable land management. These plans help reduce land use conflicts, protect wildlife corridors, and optimise land allocation for agriculture, livestock grazing, and conservation. Special emphasis is placed on strengthening the management of the Enduimet Wildlife Management Area (WMA) and ensuring community participation in decision-making processes.

2. Human–Wildlife Conflict Mitigation

The project works with 18 villages in Enduimet WMA and Mkomazi to implement practical mitigation measures to reduce crop damage and livestock predation. Interventions include installation of chilli fences, use of chilli bombs, beehive fencing, and construction of 50 predator-proof bomas. In addition, communities are trained in conflict response and prevention strategies. A large-scale awareness campaign is implemented in 30 villages using innovative approaches such as community theatre and podcasts to promote coexistence and climate adaptation.

3. Water Resource Management and Infrastructure Development

To address water scarcity and reduce competition between humans, livestock, and wildlife, the project installs at least 10 rainwater harvesting systems with 10,000-litre capacity tanks across 7 villages. It also supports the registration and capacity building of community-based water supply organizations within Enduimet WMA. These efforts improve water access, strengthen governance, and reduce conflicts related to water use.

4. Sustainable Livelihoods and Economic Empowerment

The project supports the development and scaling of sustainable income-generating activities, including ecotourism enterprises and other nature-based businesses. Technical assistance, monitoring, and capacity building are provided to ensure long-term viability. Special focus is given to marginalized groups, particularly women and youth, to enhance economic inclusion and reduce reliance on unsustainable natural resource use.

5. Wildlife Roadkill Reduction and Infrastructure Mitigation

The project assesses wildlife roadkill hotspots along the Arusha–Namanga highway and implements mitigation measures in collaboration with relevant authorities. These may include signage, speed control interventions, wildlife crossings, and awareness campaigns. The goal is to reduce wildlife mortality and improve road safety for both wildlife and people.