Mountain forests

The forest ecosystem of the Eastern Arc Mountains (EAM) is one of 25 global biodiversity ‘Hot Spots’. One quarter of the EAM plant species are endemic, which constitutes about 60% of all endemic species of Tanzania (NEMC 2006). The forest provides about 40% of the total household consumption of forest and woodland products such as firewood, building materials, medicinal herbs, wild fruits and other food materials in nearby communities (ibid). The EAM forests are major catchments providing water to over 3 million people and several industries. About 70% of Tanzania’s electricity is generated from hydropower sources in these catchments. The mountain ecosystems of Mount Kilimanjaro are also a key feature of Tanzania’s mountain forests. With a large altitudinal range (700-5,895m) Mount Kilimanjaro has a very rich biodiversity. Vegetation types range from savannah bushland, grassland, pastureland and cropland (mainly maize, wheat, coffee and bananas) in the low-lying areas, through indigenous forest in the mid-altitudes, to alpine vegetation on the higher slopes. The mountain is the primary source of water for domestic supply, agriculture and hydropower, food, fuel, non-timber forest products (including medicinal plants) and building materials for the people of Kilimanjaro region in northern Tanzania. It also provides cultural benefits and is one of the major tourism attractions in Tanzania.