THE government has allocated 700m/- to compensate 115 residents of Kimuuni Hamlet in Mkota Village, Mwakijembe Ward, Mkinga District. The residents vacated their land to facilitate conservation activities within the Umba River buffer zone of Mkomazi National Park.

Speaking at the launch of the compensation exercise, Tanga Regional Commissioner, Ambassador Dr. Batilda Burian, said the government is continuing reforms aimed at resolving land disputes, particularly those involving communities living near conservation areas.

Dr. Burian explained that the Umba River buffer zone has been designated for mixed use, including:

• Wildlife and forest conservation.
• Community-based conservation.
• Residential areas and human activities.

She added that these reforms are crucial to protect natural resources, reduce conflicts, strengthen boundaries, and allow communities to live without the frequent disturbances from dangerous wildlife, especially elephants.

Joint sectoral committees, involving regional land offices, the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA), and the Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS), helped complete the reassessment of the disputed area, confirming 700 mn/- as the rightful compensation for the 115 residents.

“The government is committed to ensuring people receive what they deserve. Those whose assessments are complete have been paid, but we urge technical teams to finalise documentation for the remaining 25 residents so they can also receive their rights. This exercise is for all affected citizens,” she emphasized.

On relocation plans, Dr. Burian revealed that the government has identified more than 454 hectares inside the buffer zone—covering parts of Korogwe, Lushoto, and Mkinga districts—to serve as a designated settlement area.

She stressed that proper land-use planning will ensure relocated residents do not lose the economic opportunities they previously depended on. Dr. Burian directed relevant institutions to complete the settlement plan within 60 days to allow conservation activities to continue, including establishing a new park gate on the Mkinga side to strengthen tourism. She also urged TANAPA to support relocated communities with livelihood projects such as beekeeping to boost income and reduce human-wildlife conflict.

Gilbert Kalima, Mkinga District Commissioner, thanked the residents for their cooperation during the process, stating the government’s financial commitment demonstrates its responsiveness and care for citizens.

Kalima added that compensation has also been provided to residents of Kwale and Mtimbwani villages for land taken for other development projects. He noted that compensation for 28 residents who surrendered land for security operations along the Horohoro border is now in its final stage. Residents affected by the expansion of the Tanga–Horohoro highway are also being considered, with compensation expected once processes are complete.

Steria Ndaga, TANAPA Deputy Commissioner, highlighted the ecological value of the buffer zone. She noted that the area is an important tourism asset due to its scenic landscape, plant diversity, and wildlife, including migratory birds and animals that rely on the Umba River during the dry season.