Overview

Vision
We envision a future where rural communities in Tanzania thrive with economic stability, resilient livelihoods, and harmonious coexistence with the rich biodiversity of their environment.

Mission
Our mission is to partner with communities living near wildlife and forest areas to create and market environmentally sustainable products. By doing so, we aim to achieve biodiversity conservation alongside economic empowerment.

Goals

1. Translate the economic value of wildlife and forest resources directly to individuals.
2. Reduce illegal wildlife and forest resource consumption.
3. Support rural households in sustainably improving crop yields.
4. Strengthen connections between rural producers and urban markets.
5. Empower communities to generate income from eco-friendly activities.

At ECOWICE, we support Tanzanian farmers in producing environmentally friendly products across the entire value chain from sustainable production to impactful marketing.

Our Impact

Over 680 farmers have transitioned from environmentally harmful practices such as charcoal production and illegal hunting to sustainable livelihoods, thanks to ECOWICE. Our team combines expertise in wildlife management and economic development to craft solutions that benefit both people and the planet.

One example is addressing human-wildlife conflict between farmers and elephants. Elephants frequently raid crops, but ECOWICE has introduced “living fences” made from beehives connected by wires. When elephants disturb the wires, the bees are released, naturally deterring them while leaving farmers’ fields intact. This innovative solution not only protects crops but also provides farmers with a new income stream through honey sales.

This dual impact of wildlife preservation and economic empowerment exemplifies how ECOWICE creates resilient communities and sustainable ecosystems.

Who We Serve

ECOWICE works with diverse groups along the boundaries of Mikumi National Park, Nyerere National Park, and Rungwe Nature Reserve:

• Farmers: Many low-income farmers face challenges due to limited land. To avoid deforestation and chemical dependency, we train them in organic pest control and crop planning, increasing yields sustainably.
• Young People: We offer alternative livelihoods to youth engaged in environmentally destructive activities. For example, we train them in beekeeping, honey production, and mushroom farming, which provide year-round income and replace harmful practices like charcoal production.
• Artisans: We support artisans using non-timber forest resources, such as palm leaves and bamboo. In Mkata Village, we facilitated the creation of the Upendo Artisan Group, a collective of 23 women who craft and sell eco-friendly products.
• Children: Environmental education programs introduce schoolchildren to wildlife conservation, animal behavior, and sustainable practices like tree planting and butterfly incubation, fostering a love for nature.
• Local Leaders: By forming Village Natural Resource Committees, such as the one in Mkata Village, we empower local decision-makers to enforce sustainable land and forest use practices.

Stories of Change

ECOWICE bridges cultural traditions with modern conservation solutions, turning challenges into opportunities.

• Farmers bordering protected areas now see the value of coexistence through practices like living fences that protect their crops and provide income.
• Youth trained in eco-friendly ventures are now leaders in their communities, promoting sustainable livelihoods.
• Artisans from Mkata create crafts that reflect their cultural heritage while conserving natural resources.

Through creative approaches and shared goals, ECOWICE transforms lives while protecting Tanzania’s unparalleled biodiversity.