NJOMBE Regional Commissioner Anthony Mtaka has called on stakeholders in the forestry business to collaborate closely to ensure sustainable use of forest resources while safeguarding the environment and contributing meaningfully to regional and national economic growth.

Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting on forestry business and investment held at the Regional Commissioner’s office yesterday, Mtaka emphasized that Njombe is richly endowed with forest resources that, if well-managed, could drive economic transformation.

“Njombe has vast forest resources. We must utilize them effectively through productive investment to create jobs, raise household incomes and increase government revenue,” he said, stressing the need for a robust system to monitor and manage forest-related activities.

He said the meeting was significant as it aimed to address investment opportunities, challenges and strategies for sustainable growth—particularly in the development of forest product processing industries such as veneer, high-grade timber and other value-added wood products.

Mtaka further assured stakeholders that the regional government is committed to creating an enabling environment for both local and foreign investors, including streamlining permit processes, easing land access and offering technical support through agencies like the Tanzania Investment Centre (TIC), Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS) and the regional land office.

“Success in this sector requires unity, transparency and shared commitment. This is not the time for disjointed efforts. We must work together while upholding environmental protection and sustainability,” he added.

Njombe Regional Administrative Secretary Judica Omari underscored the need to strengthen workers' rights in the forestry sector, highlighting that improving labour standards is essential for long-term sustainability.

She urged the Regional Commissioner to ensure that all investors comply with labour laws, including issuing formal contracts and registering workers with social security schemes such as NSSF.

“Respecting workers’ rights is fundamental to the sustainability of this sector. We want to see safe, equitable, and dignified workplaces,” said Omari, calling for increased workplace inspections and education from oversight bodies like OSHA.

According to data from TFS, Njombe Region has over 500,000 hectares of forest and ranks among the country’s top producers of forest products. The region also presents significant potential for establishing wood processing industries and attracting investment in finance, transport and eco-friendly technologies.

The meeting marked a new chapter in public-private partnership for the coordinated development of the forestry sector, offering fresh hope for thousands of Njombe residents who depend on forests for employment, income and livelihoods.