Assessment of the Systems and Challenges for the Government Afforestation Projects in Hai District .Kilimanjaro

Abstract

This study aimed at assessing the hindrance factors for government afforestation projects at Hai District, Kilimanjaro, while specifically intended to investigate the afforestation systems (or approaches) used by the government projects at Hai District, to ascertain the level of community participation in afforestation projects at Hai District, and to examine the hindrance factors for afforestation projects at Hai District. In approaching research issues, the researcher used a descriptive research survey, whereby a mixed research approach was also employed. A total sample size of 223 respondents was employed using both probability and non-probability sampling techniques. The data were analyzed using descriptive analysis and multiple linear regression analysis with the use of SPSS software. The findings of the study revealed that the planting approach is more commonly employed in Hai District than other approaches, including “Approach 1: Site Preparation, Approach 2: Spacing, and Approach 3: Pitting. The study also revealed that the majority of citizens in the community of Hai District rarely participate in the reforestation of degraded forest areas. It was discovered that they rarely participate in tree nursery establishments, occasional forest fire fighting participation, rarely do reforestation of degraded forest areas participation, and rarely participate in tree planting training programs in the community of Hai District. The study concludes that the predictors, which include inadequate land size, water scarcity, high pricing of seedlings, and low-quality seeds, all have an effect on the dependent variable; thus, all predictors have a significant effect on hindering the successful afforestation project in Hai District. The study recommends that there is a need to demonstrate that tree planting is an appropriate land use that complements other farming practices, illustrating the full range of potential environmental benefits, including the role of trees in creating a more resilient region.