DAR ES SALAAM, Feb 24 (NNN-DAILYNEWS) — IN the heart of Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes, where vast savannas stretch endlessly and wildlife roams freely, a silent threat has been creeping in—one that threatens the delicate balance of the ecosystems.
Invasive plant species have found their way into protected areas, gradually choking native flora, reducing grazing lands, and altering the natural environment that sustains the region’s rich biodiversity. While many view this as a looming crisis, others see an untapped opportunity waiting to be harnessed.
One such visionary is Tanzania’s Ambassador to Cuba, Humphrey Polepole, who recently embarked on a groundbreaking visit to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) accompanied by a team of invasive plant researchers from Cuba and experts from Tanzania’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism.
His mission was clear—to explore solutions that would turn the environmental challenge into an economic advantage.
Standing amid the vast plains of Ngorongoro, Polepole observed something strikingly familiar. The invasion of plant species such as Parthenium hysterophus (commonly known as Gugu Karoti) and Gutenbergia cordifolia (Gutenbergia) bore an uncanny resemblance to a problem Cuba had once faced. But unlike many nations that struggled to combat these species, Cuba had transformed the issue into a golden opportunity.
‘Cuba faced the same challenge but instead of seeing these plants as a nuisance, they turned them into valuable resources. They developed herbal medicines, organic pesticides, and even bio-based products from these very species. This is exactly why we are here—to learn from their expertise and apply their successful strategies in Tanzania,” he said.
With a climate similar to that of Tanzania, Cuba had found innovative ways to utilize invasive plants, ensuring they became beneficial rather than destructive. By working with Cuban experts, Tanzania hopes to replicate this success and pioneer a new approach to conservation—one that not only protects wildlife habitats but also drives economic growth.
As the research team traversed the landscapes of Ngorongoro, from Kayapus to Kakesio and the lush Ndutu plains, the impact of invasive species became evident. The thick spread of foreign plants was suffocating indigenous vegetation, making it harder for herbivorous animals to find suitable grazing areas. This, in turn, threatened the entire food chain, from gazelles to lions and the countless species that depend on a balanced ecosystem.
‘Invasive plants are not just a botanical issue. They disrupt the entire ecosystem, threatening the survival of our wildlife. That is why we must act now, and we must act strategically,” he said.
One of the key solutions being explored is repurposing the plants for human use. Through scientific research and technological advancements, Tanzania could turn invasive species into commercially viable products— ranging from herbal medicines to organic fertilizers and even raw materials for industries. The potential is vast, and with the right strategies, this could usher in a new era of economic sustainability.
Polepole highlighted that the government is committed to strengthening international cooperation in conservation efforts. The arrival of the Cuban research team is part of a larger initiative to promote innovative environmental solutions and establish Tanzania as a leader in sustainable resource management.
‘The government is determined to turn challenges into opportunities by collaborating with experts from around the world, we can develop cuttingedge solutions that not only protect our natural heritage but also create new economic avenues for our people,” he said.
To ensure the success of this initiative, the government plans to work closely with academic institutions and research centers. Future studies will focus on maximizing the economic value of invasive plants, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental conservation.
The idea of utilizing invasive plants for economic benefit is not merely theoretical—it has the potential to transform Tanzania’s environmental and economic landscape. If properly managed, industries could emerge around the processing of these plants into useful products. Herbal medicine industries, organic pesticide production, and even biofuel research could thrive, providing employment opportunities and boosting the national economy.
Environmental experts emphasize that managing invasive species requires a multifaceted approach. While some methods, such as the use of chemical herbicides, can be harmful to the ecosystem, Tanzania is exploring more sustainable alternatives. These include introducing planteating animals that naturally control invasive species, encouraging local communities to cultivate competitive native plants, and promoting eco-friendly harvesting techniques.
As research and development efforts continue, Tanzania is poised to set an example for the rest of Africa in invasive plant management. With a forward-thinking approach that integrates conservation and economic innovation, the country can pave the way for sustainable development.
Studies have already suggested that some invasive plants can be repurposed to manufacture soaps, essential oils, and herbal cosmetic products. Others have medicinal properties that could contribute to traditional and modern pharmaceutical industries. The possibilities are limitless, and with continued research, more innovative uses are bound to emerge.
Polepole’s visit to Ngorongoro marks a pivotal step in Tanzania’s journey toward solving the invasive plant crisis. By combining scientific research, international collaboration, and strategic policymaking, the nation is not only protecting its precious ecosystems but also unlocking new economic frontiers.
As the sun set over the Ngorongoro plains, the research team left with a renewed sense of purpose. What once seemed like an environmental nightmare was now being reimagined as a gateway to progress. With determination, innovation, and the right partnerships, Tanzania is well on its way to transforming invasive plants from a threat into a thriving industry—one that benefits both its people and its precious wildlife for generations to come. — NNN-DAILYNEWS
